Acne is inflamed because of infection by bacteria P. acnes. This bacterium infects the sebum and rapidly multiplies inside the gland. With infection, the gland gets inflamed and the infection spreads to dermis and the cells deeper in the skin. If this is left unchecked, the acne ruptures after damaging the deeper skin cells and cause scars. To stop this antibiotics are a great help.

How antibiotics work- antibiotics work by selectively killing the bacteria. They do not cause damage to the cells of the body. By killing the bacteria antibiotics reduce the infection and inflammation. Oral antibiotics are the fastest way to treat such infections. The common antibiotics used for this are- Erythromycin, Tetracycline, Minocycline, Doxycycline , Clindamycin and others. Let us discuss about them.

Erythromycin-

This is a broad spectrum antibiotic. It is available in capsule, tablet, long-acting capsule, long-acting tablet forms. It is commonly prescribed to be taken two to three times a day for seven or more days. The strength and the dosage duration depend upon the severity of the infection. It can be used in pregnancy. It not only reduces infection but also reduces inflammation. Generally it is taken along with or after food. Erythromycin may cause diarrhea, upset stomach, vomiting etc. If such side effects persist, you need to consult with your doctor.

Tetracycline

This is another antibiotic that is very commonly used to treat acne. Tetracycline is commonly available as a capsule. The strength and the dosage duration depend upon the severity of the infection. Tetracycline cannot be taken during pregnancy. It should be taken on empty stomach and should not be taken with any milk products. It can cause side effects such as- sore mouth, skin redness, diarrhea, upset stomach etc.

Minocycline

Minocycline belongs to the class of medications known as tetracycline antibiotics. Minocycline is commonly available as a capsule or a tablet. The strength and the dosage duration depend upon the severity of the infection. Tetracycline cannot be taken during pregnancy. It should be taken on empty stomach and should not be taken with any milk products. It can cause side effects such as- sore mouth, skin redness, diarrhea, ringing in ears etc.

Doxycycline

Doxycycline also belongs to the class of medications known as tetracycline antibiotics. It is available as capsule or tablets. If you feel nausea with Doxyclince, take it with food or milk. The strength and the dosage duration depend upon the severity of the infection. Doxyclcline may cause dry mouth, diarrhea and sunburns.

Clindamycin

Clindamycin is used as an antibiotic for acne but because it may cause colitis, it is commonly used in topical form. If your doctor has prescribed Clindamycin oral, discuss the side effects in detail.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.