Lymecycline (Tetralysal)

Lymecycline, which is also known as Tetralysal 300, is an antibiotic. It is most commonly prescribed to treat acne, but it can also be used to treat chest infections, sinus infections, and sexually transmitted infections.

It works by targeting the acne bacteria, preventing them from multiplying and causing spots and inflammation. It is available from HealthExpress in a 408mg dose which you take just once daily.

Please note: It is recommended that you take Lymecycline capsules with a topical skin treatment to get the best effects, such as an azelaic acid (Skinoren cream) or adapalene with benzoyl peroxide treatment (Epiduo gel). If you don’t use either of these treatments already, you can get a treatment pack containing both Lymecycline and a topical treatment at HealthExpress.

Acne is caused by sebum, which is oil, building up in pores on the skin. This can make an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. This can result in more severe blemishes, redness and inflammation.

Lymecycline works against these bacteria. It kills the cells needed for the acne bacteria to multiply. This causes the bacteria to eventually reduce and your acne symptoms to go away.

How long does Lymecycline take to work?

Antibiotics will take some time to work on your acne. However, you should start seeing your symptoms improve within 8 weeks. If you aren’t seeing any improvement after that time, contact your doctor or dermatologist.

If you stop taking the medication too early, it may cause your symptoms to return or become worse. Do not stop taking them unless your doctor has advised you.

Lymecycline is available in 408 mg capsules that you take just once daily. Take your capsule each morning with a glass of water.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If you have missed but it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue from your next scheduled dose. Do not take two capsules to make up for it.

If you take too many capsules, contact your doctor, even if you feel well.

Lymecycline works best when used with a topical acne treatment to achieve the best results. It is recommended you use a topical treatment such as:

• a prescription azelaic acid (e.g. Skinoren cream)
• an adapalene/benzoyl peroxide (e.g. Epiduo gel)

Continue to take your topical treatment as your doctor has instructed alongside the Lymecycline.

Precautions

Lymecycline can make you sensitive to sunlight. Whilst taking it, avoid direct sunlight and tanning beds. If you do encounter direct sunlight, wear an SPF50 sun lotion on your face and body to prevent burning.

Like all prescription medicines, Lymecycline can cause some side effects. The most common side effects are mild and go away once your body has adjusted to the treatment.

The most common side effects include:

• nausea (sickness)
• stomach pain
• diarrhoea
• headache

If your side effects persist or you experience more severe side effects, contact your doctor as soon as possible.

Please refer to the patient information leaflet for a full list of side effects.

Lymecycline is suitable for most adults diagnosed with moderate to severe acne. However, if you have a certain medical condition, you may not be suitable to use this medication.

Do not take Lymecycline if you:

• are allergic to lymecycline, other tetracyclines, or any of the other ingredients
• have ever had kidney disease
• are pregnant or breastfeeding

Others may need to consult their doctor first, such as if you:

• have ever had liver or kidney problems
• have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
• struggle with Myasthenia Gravis

If you’re not sure if it’s safe for you to take, always consult your doctor first.

Lymecycline can react with other medications. Do not take it with:

• indigestion remedies (e.g. antacids)
• ulcer-healing drugs
• quinapril - is used to treat high blood pressure
• supplements which contain calcium, aluminium, magnesium, zinc or iron

Some medicines may react and your doctor can decide whether it’s safe to use, like:

• oral retinoids (e.g. tretinoin or isotretinoin)
• anticoagulants - used to stop blood clotting
• diuretics - used to treat kidney disease, heart disease or high blood pressure
• epilepsy medications
• certain anaesthetics

If you take any other medications not listed above, consult your doctor before using Lymecycline.

Can I drink alcohol whilst on Lymecycline?

Although there is no known interaction between alcohol and Lymecycline, it is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking antibiotics. If antibiotics make you feel unwell, the effects of alcohol could make your side effects worse.

You can buy Lymecycline online at HealthExpress for moderate to severe acne provided you already use Epiduo or Skinoren. If you don’t, you can order Epiduo gel or Skinoren with Lymecycline if you are suitable.

Our service is certified safe by the MHRA, GMC and GPhC. You will be required to complete an online medical consultation which will be reviewed by one of our registered doctors. Once approved, the medication will be sent to your chosen address.