Tetracycline
Oral Antibiotic
Reviews
3.3
586 Reviews
Tetracycline
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.
Tetracycline
Oral Antibiotic
Side Effects
Medium-High
Tetracycline
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.
Tetracycline
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%

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December 3, 2007

Pros:

It really help the redness of the zit and makes your pores smaller

Cons:

It kinda hurts my stomach but nice skin is worth it also when u first take it your skin flares up for like 2 to 3 days but dont stop taking it because it will get better

good acne product only 4 buck at the wal mart pharmacy
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September 18, 2007

Pros:

Prevents cysts very well.

Cons:

Some GI tract upset.

I'm positive it prevents cysts. I've run out, and started getting the huge deep cysts. Started taking it again, and they went away. I started taking it when I was 15, and I'm 22 now and still taking it.
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August 26, 2007

Pros:

Worked really really well, so great I didnt even recognize that was my actual face.

Cons:

A slight pinkish hue to just my face (will wear a better sunscrean)Just like Nikkala as soon as I stopped taking it my face went back to being worse than before - I have never been more ashamed of my skin before. I'll never stop taking it again.

Dont try it, make it a PERMINATE habbit. I made the mistake of just trying it and now look where I'm at. Its awefull, I should have never stopped taking it. Honestly I never did anything different as far as my routine -everything the same, just taking those little pills helped. Will definately recommend to a friend.
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June 16, 2007

Pros:

Its convenient and easy. It really works. Ive been on it for about 20 days. Its really made a difference.

Cons:

You have to take it with an empty stomach, or you'll have a really bad upset stomach.

It will help a lot, and if you want to have better results. I suggest you use acne cleansers. Im combining the pills and over the counter acne products together. It'll really help. My acne is almost all gone. In just 3 weeks. Im impressed.
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May 30, 2007

Pros:

This worked really well for me- it totally cleared up my skin while i was on it!

Cons:

I had stomach pains in the beginning but they went away after a few months

I was on oxytetracycline for about 6 months and my skin was nearly totally clear apart from scarring, so my doctor told me to come off it. My acne then came back and when I tried to go back on it, it didn't work anymore for me. So I would definately recommend it but just don't come off it too early!
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May 28, 2007

Pros:

It cleared up my acne within 2 weeks. Inflammation is down and new pimples ( if any) are very small and go away quickly. Nothing but great things to say! Didn't cause any stomach upset, or other side effects.

Cons:

None

I take acidophilous 2-3 times a day in between taking tetracycline - to prevent a yeast infection and to keep good bacteria in my body. It works, it's affordable, no too inconvenient, and easy! I think if you haven't taken many antibiotics in your life, then this route will work for you. Just make sure to slather the sun screen on when you go outside.
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February 22, 2007

Pros:

Clears skin (it just takes time!)

Cons:

I'm always hungry, so having to wait until the medication has digested in order to eat again, is hard for me...but worth it!

I was on Minocyclene for 6 months, and it did nothing for me. Then my Doc prescribed Tetra 2 times daily at 500 mg. and at first I noticed nothing. After two months, I have no acne- maybe one or two pimples. I also get glycolic acid peels. This medicine is cheap, and really works. I promise, just give it 2 months.
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January 13, 2007

Pros:

Tetra. combined with the clear skin regimen cleared persistent moderate acne in a little over two weeks.

Cons:

It is a hassle to have to take it on an empty stomach. However, i dont know what's wrong w/ those people who are having stomach problems.

Used the clears skin regimen for 3 and 1/2 months before taking tetra. I am convinced that the CSR will not work alone. Received tetra a little over two weeks ago. 500mg (250mg did not work for me) twice a day along w/ CSR cleared my skin very quickly. Rememeber to not lie down for half an hour after taking the pill. I would recommend this to anyone w/ mild to moderate acne.
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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