Oral Antibiotic
Reviews
3.4
1734 Reviews
Oral Antibiotic
Efficacy
56%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Should never be used on its own and for a maximum of 3 months.
Oral Antibiotic
Side Effects
Medium-High
Oral Antibiotic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Antibiotics should be used for a maximum of 3 months, provide only moderate benefit and only to some people, and may lead to side effects and strains of resistant bacteria. Studies do show doxycycline can reduce severe acne in the short term, and as far as oral antibiotics are concerned, it’s usually the go-to, but approach with caution and stay your own advocate.
Oral Antibiotic
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Doxycycline
Compare To Other Treatments
5
20.7%
4
32.9%
3
22.1%
2
12.7%
1
11.5%

Used Doxycycline? Rate It:

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November 1, 2009

Pros:

I had only minor acne which only showed up on my cheeks and chin but. cysts started to form so I told my doctor to prescribe me something! I noticed major improvements within the first week but (see con)

Cons:

My acne did a turn for the worse! Haven't had this bad of a breakout ever. Hopefully it's just running its course and it'll all clear up soon!! It's only been a month so I'm praying.. I'm also taking differin too..

I agree with taking with the food. The first day I took it without food and I was food.. next day... HORRIBLE!!! Very bad Nausea and threw up. ~_~
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September 10, 2009

Pros:

It seemed like it was starting to clear my skin, I didn't get any new spots while on it.

Cons:

It gave me horrible stomach aches even when I took it with food and water so I had to stop.

Made me sick so I couldn't use it.
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August 24, 2009

Pros:

None

Cons:

Has made my acne worse

I used to have moderate acne, and 3 weeks ago the doctor prescribed me Doxy and it has made my acne severe and out of control. Not really sure what to do.
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August 19, 2009

Pros:

I haven't used it for long to state any pros, but I have to stay it doesn't cause skin irritation like some products do.

Cons:

causes severe skin peeling. It hasn't worked it's magic fast for me.

I have been using this product now for 5 days now and when I use it there is a slight itching and my skin starts to compress and there is a severe skin peeling. As for helping my acne, my mom keeps saying it is improving but I can hardly say anything. Still I haven't used to long to say it works well or not. I read that you need to use it for at least 2 weeks to see slight improvement and 12 weeks for full effect. I haven't had any stomach upsetting problems. I keep taking it in the morning with my breakfast and I also use the Gel (peroxide). I also eat a bit of yogurt every day (eat yogurt and it will help your stomach). Your stomach keeps getting upset because the antibiotic kills all the good and bad bacteria and the yogurt will provide the bacteria for your stomach again. Also take bottle of Acidophilus 250 mg along with your antibiotic because it will keep the bacteria in your stomach balanced and prevent infection. You don't want all the bacteria in your body gone, you need balan
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August 12, 2009

Pros:

cleared up my skin on my chin

Cons:

stomach pain, dry skin, not workin

Ive been on doryx for about to weeks now (150x once a day) and ive also been using Epiduo along with it.I started to notice it looked a lot better the first week but then, during the second week i broke out really bad! i dont know wat to do. my deretoligist told me to use theis for a month and then we are going to accutane. id rather not, but i think it the only way. this drug may work for some people... but not all. i wish i would work for everyone.
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August 11, 2009

Pros:

haven't seen any yet.

Cons:

stomach is upset, somewhat like a burning feeling. I did throw up once when I didn't eat anything before taking the pill. Now I eat, but my stomach still gets upset once in a while.

I have been using doxy (100mg) for three weeks and I think my acne has gotten a little worse. I guess I will give it a try, since many people have stated that it takes at least three months to completely work.
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August 7, 2009

Pros:

I'm over 30. I've had acne all my life. This antibiotic worked almost instantly. Started 10 days ago, and have not had a single outbreak since 7 days ago. Unbelievable.

Cons:

Tend to get sunburned easily. A bit of stomach discomfort at first.

Personally, it's a wonder drug. Obviously, it won't work as well for everybody, but it's really worth asking your doctor for a prescription. I think you want at least 100mg per day dosage for avg size person with light to moderate acne. I've tried over-the-counter meds and creams, as well as prescription creams...none of that worked for me.
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August 5, 2009

Pros:

Cleared up my acne..reduced redness and skin looks alot smoother

Cons:

without food it upsets the stomach and very sensitive to the sun so make sure u use some kind of sunblock!

Been using Retin_A for 11 yrs and oral medication Doxy for 2 months now and my skin is 100% clear, havent had a break out in 3 weeks. My skin looks smooth and the redness is no longer there. I had cystic acne and now i have no acne so i definitly would recommend this medication :-)
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July 28, 2009

Pros:

Works well, easy to use.

Cons:

None

Use it! I had a very sudden breakout have never having acne, I took it for 6 months and was totally clear when I stopped taking it. I did taper off slowly over a month.
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July 26, 2009

Pros:

Can't really think of any... my skin hasn't improved at all!

Cons:

Have often felt nauseous after taking the tablet. Also the odd stomach ache after taking the tablet. Weirdly, I've also felt a lot more 'bloated'.

Been taking Doxycycline twice a day along with a adapalene gel (that I apply at night) prescribed by my doctor. I seen NO improvement in my skins whatsoever! Extremely frustrating... have now started using tea tree oil instead and my complexion has improved mildly... but still not great!
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.