prolonged use of antibiotics for acne

mum · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 265

My daughter is 16 and she has typical problem for adolescent … acne. We’ve been to dermatologist and she explained her all the details about acne, we even got brochure. She was prescribed with tetracycline, which she is using regular. Well, the problem is, she is squeezing acne, so she is causing additional inflammation. I am worried, since she is taking tetracycline more than 3 months. Could there be any side effects? And, is prolonged use of antibiotics for acne even effective?
Thank you!

Petra · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 323

Traditional acne treatment is usually done with tetracycline, which she should take on empty stomach and avoid products like yogurt, milk, cheese, iron-fortified cereals, etc.
I do not think that tetracycline could have some serious side effects to her, except if she is on birth control pills, since it could decrease their effect. But you are right to be concerned, because using antibiotics has side effects and may have long term consequences, simply because body becomes resistant to antibiotics after a while, so prolonged use of any kind of antibiotics should be avoided. Tetracycline, as well as other antibiotics, should be taken for the full prescribed dose, BUT the treatment may take longer than with other antibiotics. Tetracycline is generally safe to use for months to even years, but with consultation of her dermatologist.

Petra

tricia · Joined: 16 Jan 2006 Posts: 216

petra is right. treatment of acne last longer than treatment with other antibiotics. it is usual that acne treatments take one year or even more, so you and your daughter have to be patient.
about acne squeezing... there is no good in taking antibiotics if she is squeezing pimples. really! talk her out of it. she is transfering bacteria through the entire face... it is really too bad she is on antibiotics if she is not respecting the main rule: do not pop it!
good luck in further discussions with your daughter