Lymecycline not working for acne after 3 months - what next?
Lymecycline is usually prescribed for about three months, often in combination with a cream, before judging the response. If acne is still active after that, or recurs rapidly, then switching to another antibiotic rarely helps. The next step is usually isotretinoin for moderate, scarring or persistent acne, hormonal treatment for women whose acne is around the jawline and chin, or the Aviclear laser.
Was it given a fair trial?
Antibiotic tablets work best combined with a cream such as a topical retinoid or benzoyl peroxide, which also helps the result last after the tablets stop.
Why switching antibiotic rarely helps
Antibiotic tablets can be very effective for mild or moderate acne, however acne can recur when they are discontinued. If one antibiotic has not worked, another usually adds little, and repeated courses increase the risk of bacterial resistance.
Possible next steps
- Isotretinoin: the most effective acne treatment, considered for moderate or severe acne that has not responded to tablets, or acne that keeps coming back. Approximately 85 to 90% see a long-term improvement.
- Spironolactone: for women with acne concentrated around the jawline and chin. It can be prescribed and followed up remotely.
- Aviclear laser: an option for patients who do not want to take tablets, and can give a long-lasting improvement in acne.
Antibiotics not working?
I can assess your acne and recommend the next step. Isotretinoin needs an in-person first appointment; spironolactone can be started remotely.
Related Articles
- How are antibiotics used to treat acne?
- When should I consider isotretinoin for my acne?
- What treatments are effective for hormonal acne?
- Lymecycline
