Oral Antibiotic
Reviews
3.3
586 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 27, 2006

Pros:

clears skin after a few months

Cons:

leaflet does not explain side effects such as tinnitus which i firmly believe i have developed from persisent use of these tablets.

be sure you want to deal with the side effects associated with these tablets - id prefer to have spots again! then endure the iritation of tinnitus
October 25, 2006
I have had bad cystic ance that flared up on me this past summer. I never had acne before but i got about 10-12 big cysts around my chin and it was the worst feeling. i was prescribed tetracycline 500mg 2xs a day and it took about 3 weeks to work but all of my cysts went away and i havent had a pimple now for a month. I still have scars from the cystic ance but hopefully time will fade them and hopefully once i get off this stuff the acne neevr comes back
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October 6, 2006
I started using tetracycline about two years ago(I had been using dianette since the age of 14)after my acne flared up quite severly. It was prescribed to me by a dermatologist and worked extremely quickly. However after a month or two of finishing the prescription my acne flared up to the worst it has ever been. I am now back on tetracycline aswell as the dianette for the last two months. There has been a slight improvement in my acne but it worked alot quicker the first time...I know feel once I finish the prescription again it will flare up like before...For the last few months self confidence is at an all time low and I do not go out as much anymore because of my acne .It was my 21st recently and I wouldnt allow anyone to take pictures of me at my party...Things can only get better right??:)
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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.