What is tetracycline?
Tetracycline is a broad spectrum antibiotic from the class of tetracyclines, which is used orally in medium to heavy inflammatory acne. It is used if topical antibiotics alone are not sufficiently effective.
Tetracyclines have been proven in acne therapy for decades. In addition to the antibacterial action, they also have anti-inflammatory properties that contribute to the improvement of acne regardless of the antibacterial effect.
In practice, today more frequent doxycycline or minocycline are used as modern tetracyclines, but tetracycline remains a proven option.
Active Ingredients & Mechanism of Action
Active ingredient: Tetracyclin
Tetracycline acts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory:
Antibacterial effect:
- Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis (30S-Ribosom)
- Bacteriostatic against Cutibacterium acnes
- Reduces the bacterial load in the sebaceous glands
Inflammatory action:
- Inhibits matrix metalloproteinases
- Reduced neutrophil chemotaxis
- Inhibits production of proinflammatory cytokines
- This effect also exists in subantibiotic doses
Time:
- First improvement: 4-6 weeks
- Optimum effect: 8-12 weeks
Who is it suitable for?
Tetracycline is suitable for:
- Medium to heavy flammable acne
- Papulo pussy acne
- If topical therapy is not enough
In combination with:
- Topic therapy (benzoyl peroxide and/or retinoid)
- Not as monotherapy
Not suitable:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Children under 8 years of age (decolorations)
- Light acne (topic therapy first)
Available Dosages
Tetracycline tablets/capsules:
- 250-500 mg 2x daily
- Treatment duration: 6-12 weeks
- Maximum: 3 months, after check therapy
Intake note:
- Take sober (1 hour before or 2 hours after meal)
- Don't use milk products!
How to Take
Intake:
- 1 hour before eating OR 2 hours after eating
- With a large glass of water
- Stay upright (do not lie down directly)
Important – interactions with food:
- NO milk, yogurt, cheese (calcium bindets tetracycline)
- NO iron, magnesium, aluminum (Antazida)
- These substances prevent absorption in the intestine
Additional:
- Always along with topical therapy (benzoyl peroxide, retinoid)
- Use sun protection (photosensitization!)
Contraindications
Adapted to:
- Pregnancy (decoloration and bone growth disorder in the child)
- Still time
- Children under 8 years
- Heavy liver or kidney failure
Preview at:
- Myasthenia gravis
- Systemic Lupus erythematodes
Prevention: Tetracyclines can reduce the efficacy of oral contraceptives! Additional prevention method recommended.
Possible Side Effects
**
- Gastrointestinal complaints (abuse, diarrhea)
- photosensitization (sunburn sensitivity)
- vaginal fungal infections
Occasionally:
- Headaches
- Squeeze
- esophagitis (in case of insufficient liquid absorption)
Selten:
- Dentistry (in children/pregnant)
- Pseudotumor cerebri (brain pressure)
- Hepatotoxicity
Prevention: Drink sufficient water, use sunscreen.
Interactions
Reactions:
- Antazida (aluminum, magnesium, calcium) – reduced absorption
- Milk products – reduced intake
- Iron preparations – reduced intake
- Oral contraceptives – possibly reduced effect
- Isotretinoin – NOT combine (Pseudotumor cerebri)
- Methotrexate - increased toxicity
Time interval: At least 2 hours distance from antazida, iron and dairy products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Similar Medications
Is tetracycline right for you?
A licensed doctor will review your information and issue a prescription if suitable. Discreet and secure.
Important Notice
This information does not replace medical advice. If you have questions about your health or the suitability of this medication, please consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Important Safety Information
This service operates under German pharmaceutical law (HWG). For risks and side effects, read the package leaflet and consult your doctor or pharmacist. All medications are dispensed from a licensed pharmacy in Germany.