Oxytetracycline

Oxytetracycline is a widely used antibiotic that treats various infections. It's commonly prescribed for skin conditions such as acne and rosacea.

Acne is a skin condition that can occur due to hormonal changes or when a lot of bacteria block your pores. Rosacea, on the other hand, is a long-term skin condition that comes and goes in cycles. If you have rosacea, you might notice times when the skin on your face, especially your cheeks, turns red and flushed. The exact cause of rosacea is unknown.

Oxytetracycline is used to treat acne caused by bacteria. It works by killing the bacteria, preventing them from producing a protein they need to survive. This medication is available in tablet form and is usually taken once daily for up to three months.

Acne is mainly caused by two factors: hormonal imbalances, which is why it's common in teenagers experiencing puberty and in pregnant women, and bacteria. People with a type of rosacea known as acne rosacea often develop spots along with the usual flushing and redness on the face.

Your skin's pores produce a substance called sebum, which helps keep your hair and skin healthy. However, if your glands produce too much sebum, it can block your pores and attract a lot of bacteria. While this bacteria is generally harmless, an excess can lead to spots.

Oxytetracycline helps by slowing down the growth of bacteria. It achieves this by preventing the bacteria from producing the essential proteins they need to live. This weakens the bacteria, allowing your body's immune system to eliminate them.

Oxytetracycline is only available in a 250mg dose. If your acne is more severe, your prescriber might suggest taking a higher dose of 500mg. This simply means you'll take two 250mg tablets each day instead of one.

If Oxytetracycline isn't improving your acne, there are other antibiotics that might be more effective. If your symptoms aren't getting better, make sure to inform your prescriber.

Oxytetracycline is used for adults and children aged 12 and over with moderate to severe acne. It is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding, for children under 12, or for people with certain kidney or liver conditions.

The online consultation checks your medical history and other medicines to make sure it is suitable for you.

Oxytetracycline is an oral antibiotic, so it works throughout the body rather than only where it is applied. It is usually taken twice a day on an empty stomach, at least an hour before food or two hours after.

Milk, antacids and supplements containing iron, calcium or zinc reduce how much is absorbed, so they should be taken at a different time of day.

Oxytetracycline belongs to the tetracycline group of antibiotics, which also includes lymecycline (Tetralysal) and doxycycline. These work in a similar way, but lymecycline and doxycycline are taken once a day and can be taken with food.

You'll need a prescription for most antibiotics, including Oxytetracycline. This ensures the treatment is safe and suitable for you. Our clinician will discuss the various treatment options with you before prescribing, so you can decide which one you feel is best from those that are appropriate for you.