While tetracycline is not officially a cure for acne, this popular medication can be very effective against both mild and severe forms of acne. When used to treat severe acne tetracycline acne treatments are taken in high doses, while the dosage for treating less serious forms of acne is usually lower. Both tetracycline and tetracycline derivatives like doxycycline and minocycline are used to treat acne outbreaks.
Since treatment with tetracycline acne products is able only to suppress acne symptoms, treatment with this medication is often a long term process, lasting months or even years. When used over the long term to keep acne symptoms at bay the dosages given are usually quite low.
There are of course a number of people who should not take tetracycline acne treatments, including pregnant women and women who are breast feeding. The reason for this is that taking tetracycline can inhibit the growth of bone, and this could lead to skeletal defects in the developing fetus. Those who take tetracycline should also be aware that it can permanently stain the teeth.
Tetracycline is usually not prescribed for children under the age of 12, due to its ability to stunt bone growth and stain the teeth. Oral erythromycin is often used instead for pregnant and breast feeding women and for young children.
As with any medication, tetracycline acne treatments can have a number of side effects, and it is important for those considering treatment to be aware of these possible negative reactions. Some of the side effects that have been observed in those taking tetracycline include skin rash, headaches, gastrointestinal problems, anemia, liver problems and kidney problems.
Treatment with tetracycline and its derivatives can also cause the skin to become more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important for those undergoing such treatment to always wear sun block. And since all antibiotics also kill off the good bacteria in the gut it may be a good idea to take an acidophilus supplement, or to eat yogurt and drink milk that has been supplemented with acidophilus, during the tetracycline treatment cycles.
The bottom line is that tetracycline and its derivatives can provide a great deal of relief from the troubling aspects of acne, and it has long been the medication of choice for serious forms of acne. As with any prescription medication, it is of course important to speak with your doctor before beginning treatment, and to keep your health care professionals advised of all medications you are taking, as well as any adverse side effects you may experience.
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