Oral Antibiotic
Reviews
3.3
588 Reviews
Oral Antibiotic
Efficacy
69%
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 to only some people, and may lead to side effects and strains of resistant bacteria. Studies do show they can sometimes reduce severe acne in the short term, 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 Tetracycline
Compare To Other Treatments
5
16.3%
4
33.3%
3
23.6%
2
15.3%
1
11.4%

Used Tetracycline? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
October 9, 2009

Pros:

I have only been on these just over a week havent really noticed much diffrence but im sure soon they will take affect.

Cons:

I broke one of the Capsules, im on one a day and I was out on a trip and only had one with me so i had to swallow the powder inside the capsule, its was really really disgusting and i felt kinda sick after it but it went away they just taste so awful

I think if i continue to take them hopefully they'll cleart up my acne, I have a few spots on my face, i usually get then on my cheeks forehead or around the mouth i also sometime get some on my back but only like one or two although sometime they can be painful. I've only every tried creams and fash washes you can buy instores perscription free, so it the first time i've been perscripted something for it.
October 1, 2009

Pros:

I'm on my second and trying with every ounce in my body not to break down and cry. Upon starting this medication I had acne along my chin and lower cheeks.. maybe half a dozen pimples. 1.5 weeks later and I have so many I can't count.

Cons:

It's a full flown acne rash. I've never had acne so sensitive in my life! It's bright red, hits to touch and just digusting!

I'll keep fighting for the next two weeks... but I's seriously hoping for miracle from this stuff...
July 22, 2009

Pros:

made zits smaller

Cons:

after a month all of the zits came back even in places on my face i never had them before

its an ok drug but once you stop using it your zits will return with vengeance
May 21, 2009

Pros:

brilliant no spots clear face!!!

Cons:

brilliant no side effects!!!

No Spots :)
December 15, 2011

Pros:

-Reduced huge cysts
-works relatively fast

Cons:

-can't drink dairy while on it
-have to plan around a pill(small price to pay)

i have bad acne which does lower my self esteem quite a bit....The first week of using this was awesome. my cysts reduced dramatically and my face became less red. I have been on it for a little over 2 weeks. The last couple days i have been drinking a lot of milk (milk blocks the tetracycline) so it hasnt been working as much the last few days. it still is slowly improving. I am going to cut dairy from my diet completely to see what happens. The only side effect i am experiencing is that i have to fart like crazy after meals( i think its from the tetracycline
August 12, 2009

Pros:

initially got rid of acne

Cons:

i have never had flaking skin before but since taking this drug my skin has been unbelievably dry. now rather than leaving my skin along to be clear i hav to combat the dryness resulting in clogged pores. DONT TAKE THIS!!!

if anyone else has had the same side effect as me please email me on corp09@[link removed]. so that i can have further light on the issue.DONT TAKE THIS
January 6, 2007

Pros:

Been taking 2000mg a day for 2weeks. Cleared up my cystic acne. Now Im just left with red spots. Taking tetracycline with RetinA and clindamycin.

Cons:

The only problem I have is my stomach. Been getting stomach pains and nausea.

When I was 19 I developed severe cystic acne.Went to the dermatologist and was prescribed erythromycin(oral and Topical) with retinA. Face cleared in 6 months.3 to clear the acne 3 to clear and peel the red spots.Face was completely clear. Stayed on the erythromycin for 6 more months.Face stayed clear except for the occasional pimple but no severe breakouts. Now Im 32 and developed severe cystic acne again.Im now immune to erythromycin so I was prescribed tetracyline and in two weeks my cysts are completely gone.Im taking 2000mg a day for one more week than I will be taking 1000mg a day.
August 22, 2009

Pros:

did nothing

Cons:

it made my acne WORSE!!!

i finished taking it and it just ruined my face and back!!! i had no acne in my face and a little bit on my shoulders so i decided to go to the doc and he recommended me that... weelll now after1 month my face is full of little pimples and my back and chest!!!!!! DAMN THIS F*cking person that invented this medicine
September 30, 2008

Pros:

Ive been taking Tretracycline for 2 weeks now and my skin has looked better than it ever has. I also use a Benzaclin topical gel in mornings and at night and since I began using it I have not had any breakouts. My skin is finally smooth and brillant!

Cons:

No cons

Ive sufferd from acne for 11 years now. But ive found somethings that works for me, hopefully it will work for you too.
December 4, 2011

Pros:

Very inexpensive

Cons:

Did not clear acne
Difficult-to-take capsules (inconvenient and VERY bad-tasting)

Many side effects that I thankfully did not experience. Difficult to swallow those nasty capsules twice a day (on an empty stomach--requires timing), finally quit after it did not help my acne four months down the line.

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.