Tetracyclines for Rosacea
Oral tetracyclines are one of the most effective treatment for the inflammatory bumps and pustules of rosacea. I will generally prescribe lymecycline as it has less side effects than older tetracyclines such as doxycycline.
Which doses work best?
For rosacea, the standard dose of lymecycline is 408mg once daily. This dose has been shown to be effective at reducing papules and pustules.
Does long-term use lose effectiveness?
The goal is usually to use oral medication to gain initial control, and then maintain the results with topical treatments alone if possible. Lymecycline is usually prescribed for a 3 month course sometimes extended up to 6 months but is not continued long term.
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
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