Tetracycline
Results
Side Effects

Tetracycline is an oral antibiotic that works by systemically fighting bacteria in the body, including in the skin, and also reduces inflammation.

Tetracycline is an oral antibiotic that works by systemically fighting bacteria in the body, including in the skin, and also reduces inflammation.

It is normally prescribed at a dose of 300 mg once or twice a day. The dose is often reduced once acne is notably improved.

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Compare To Other Treatments
5
15.2%
4
34.1%
3
23.4%
2
15.9%
1
11.4%

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February 6, 2010

Pros:

Cleared up my acne fast

Cons:

It did upset my stomach and I hated the whole 1 hr before and 2 -3 hrs after a meal.

I was trying different things but nothing worked my dr finally prescribed this for me to use for one month to see if it worked and it did work. Unfortunately after the month I went back and he took me off of it saying that I didn't need it.
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January 16, 2010

Pros:

Cleared up my acne after about 5 weeks, zone by zone.

Cons:

I don't count the "having to plan your meals" as a con, because everybody with acne knows that this is a very small price to pay for something that helps.

However - I think I'm developing a yeast infection - my testicles have become red and itchy. Not good.

Takes a while to work for some - 5 (demotivating) weeks for my part. Even the healthiest of us (I'm quite fit myself) can develop nasty stuff from it, and get resistent. Definitley not a permanent solution for those concerned about your general health and well being, but can work as something that clears your skin (and mind) so you can focus on finding something that works more permanently (dans regimen etc).
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January 8, 2010

Pros:

Free on NHS prescription, completely cleared up my acne and kept my face clear for several weeks. Not many side effects just occasional stomach aches when taking pills.

Cons:

Took a few weeks to start working and I had an initial break out for a few days at the start of the course. Have to take it on an empty stomach and it's annoying to plan your whole day around it.

Be prepared to wait a few weeks before seeing any improvement and make sure to take pills consistently.
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January 7, 2010

Pros:

Cleared up acne on my face and back quickly, and kept it from coming back.

Cons:

The only thing I did not like was having to take it on an empty stomach and work meals around it.

I thought it was great and worked very well and quickly! I had no side effects from it a all. I now only take it if I know I have an event coming up that I want to be sure I'll be clear for, such as when I took it leading up to prom.
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January 3, 2010

Pros:

Cleared skin, but eventually became resistant to it =(

Cons:

increased sensitivity to the sun

I started taking tetracycline in September 2008 and by December 2008 my skin was COMPLETELY clear. I stopped taking it in April 2009 because soccer season had started and Tetracycline made me really sensitive to sunlight and my acne slowly started coming back. Then once our school soccer season had ended, which was during June 2009 I started taking this medication once again, but sadly it did not have the same effect on my skin again=(. I took it from June until December in hopes that it would make my skin clear but didn't. I am going to be visiting the dermatologist soon now. I would still recommend this product thou because it had my skin clear for a little while, and that was the best time of my life.
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December 16, 2009

Pros:

none

Cons:

I passed out and had to be rushed to the hospital

be careful to make sure you are not allergic to this
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December 15, 2009

Pros:

I only take it when i break out and clears them within 3 days, i forget to take it so thats why breakouts remind me to take it again lol

Cons:

has not cured my acne

i have been on this med. for about two years and it has helped me keep my acne under control but has not helped me get rid of it.
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December 10, 2009

Pros:

used this for lke 2 weeks.saw results immediately..my back cleared up well and now i dont look like a major pizza face

Cons:

idk any yet...didnt know u werent suppose to drink milk with it

it works better then over the counter medication....dduuuuuhhhh
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December 3, 2009

Pros:

I used this and it kept my acne the same everyday never really got ride of it all but i didn't get any big pimples from it until.

Cons:

when i stopped using it. I got this huge inflamed undertheskin pimple and it hurt alot

No dramatic results just average
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November 22, 2009

Pros:

it seems like it kinda works sometimes...

Cons:

im not sure if it works alot

ive been using this on and off from prescription and honestly its annoying to have to eat it on an empty stomach cuz i feel like vomiting everytime, it doesnt subside for an hour so one day it was a school day and i was dying...gosh but anyways i take it with orange juice or any juice 30 min after a meal
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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.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

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.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website