Doxycycline is a widely prescribed oral antibiotic in treating moderate to severe acne, particularly cases involving inflammatory spots such as red pimples, nodules, or cysts. Doxycycline targets the underlying causes of acne, including bacteria and inflammation, making it an effective option for many patients.
Doxycycline works in two primary ways to treat acne:
Reducing Inflammation
By minimising inflammation in the skin, doxycycline helps to decrease redness, swelling, and tenderness associated with acne lesions.
Refrain from taking Doxycycline if you:
Seek a doctor's advice if you have:
Doxycycline may make the conditions above worse. It should not be taken with milk or antacids as they reduce absorption.
The typical dose for acne is 50–100 mg once or twice daily, depending on the severity of your condition.
A course of treatment usually lasts between 6 to 12 weeks, though some patients may require long-term use under medical supervision.
Each Doxycycline capsule contains 100mg Doxycycline as the active ingredient. Each capsule also contains gelatin, magnesium stearate, shellac glaze, sodium lauryl sulphate, starch, E104, E127, E131, E171, E172, and propylene glycol.
Like any other medicine, Doxycycline 100mg capsules can cause some side effects. These are usually mild and can include:
Other rare side effects from Doxycycline are:
The conditions below may indicate solid allergic reactions. Stop treatment and see your doctor in case you notice:
1. How long does it take to see results?
Improvement can be seen after 2 to 4 weeks of use, with the best results typically appearing after a few months.
2. Can I take doxycycline with food?
Yes, it can be taken with food to reduce the risk of stomach upset, but avoid dairy products which can affect absorption.
3. Does doxycycline increase sun sensitivity?
Yes, it can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight; use sunscreen and avoid prolonged sun exposure.
4. Can I use other acne treatments with doxycycline?
Yes, but consult a healthcare provider before combining treatments.
5. Is doxycycline suitable for everyone?
Not recommended for children under 12 or pregnant/breastfeeding women.