Overview
Doxycycline is a type of tetracycline antibiotic typically used to treat bacterial infections such as urinary tract infections, gum disease and some sexually transmitted diseases. It is also used to treat mild to moderate inflammatory adult acne, such as that caused by rosacea, according to the Mayo Clinic. Brand names for doxycycline include Adoxa, Monodox and Oracea.
Inflammatory Acne
Acne is caused by a build-up of skin oils and dead skin cells. This debris clogs the pores and creates a plug, which appears as a blackhead or whitehead pimple, or comedones. Inflammatory acne includes papules, pustules, cysts and nodules. They are often pus-filled legions that occur when comedones erupt and swell. Although topical treatments are usually sufficient for treating blackheads and whiteheads, antibiotics such as doxycycline are often required to kill the bacteria and treat inflammatory acne, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Benefits
Dr. Betty Ann Johnson describes doxycycline as an excellent antibiotic for penetrating the skin follicles in “Use of Systemic Agents in the Treatment of Acne Vulgaris,” published by the American Academy of Family Physicians in October, 2000. Johnson also explains doxycycline is tolerated better than other tetracyclines and may be taken with food. Doxycycline may cause fewer serious side effects than other antibiotic acne treatments.
Side Effects
Rare, serious side effects include severe headaches, blurred vision, dizziness, severe blistering and peeling of the skin, decreased urination, excessive bruising or bleeding, jaundice or flu-like symptoms such as fever, body aches and chills, according to Drugs.com. These symptoms require medical attention. Less serious side effects include mild upset stomach, vomiting and diarrhea, mouth sores, yeast infection and difficulty swallowing.
Precautions
Doxcycline is usually not prescribed for acne treatment during pregnancy due to the risk of harm to the unborn baby. This antibiotic may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Dosage adjustments may be required for those with kidney or liver disease. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends telling your doctor about other medications or supplements you are taking and if you become pregnant while taking doxycycline.
Scientific Research
A study performed at the Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine published in the May 2005 issue of “Skinmed” found doxycycline combined with a topical retinol cream provided better results than treatment with the antibiotic alone. Another study, “Effects of Subantimicrobial-Dose Doxycycline in the Treatment of Moderate Acne,” published in the April 2003 issue of the “Archives of Dermatology” concluded that doxycycline taken twice-daily was well-tolerated and significantly reduced inflammatory acne.
