Tetracycline Topical

About Tetracycline Topical

This belongs to the group of medicines known as antibacterials.

Tetracycline works by killing the bacteria, which are the cause of the irritation and inflammation of acne.

Tetracycline is available in solution form.

It is also sometimes known as: Topicycline. You may notice the use of any of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before Using Tetracycline Topical

Before using any of this preparation make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
• if you suffer from kidney problems
• if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine
• if you are using any other preparations, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines

How to Use Tetracycline Topical

• Use this preparation exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet, if possible, before beginning treatment.
• Apply Tetracycline to the whole of the affected area(s), not just to individual spots, until the skin is wet.
• This medicine is for you. Never give it to others, even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
• This medicine is for external use only. Do not swallow it. If you think that you or someone else has swallowed it contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

• It may take a month or so before you start noticing the benefits of this preparation.
• Before using any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to use alongside Tetracycline.
• Avoid contact with the eyes. If any of this preparation does get into your eyes, rinse them well with plenty of water.
• This preparation may cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than it is usually. Avoid bright sunlight and sunbeds and use a sun cream higher than factor 15 until you know how your skin reacts.
• Avoid getting this preparation near mucous membranes (e.g. inside the mouth, inside the nose, vagina etc.).
• You should complete the course of Tetracycline prescribed by your doctor, even if your condition has improved. Stopping too soon may cause your acne to return.
• This preparation can leave a faint yellow colour on the skin, which can stain clothes and bed linen. To avoid this you can rinse the area of application one hour after you applied it.

Can Tetracycline Topical cause problems?

Tetracycline occasionally causes skin irritation, which should soon disappear. If it doesn't or if it becomes severe, stop using this preparation and ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

If you experience any other worrying symptoms, which you think may be due to this preparation, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

How to store Tetracycline topical

• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct light and heat.
• This preparation should not be used after the expiry date displayed on the container or label.
• Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely out of the reach of children or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

© EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2005   Updated: 20/05/2005