Lymecycline Capsules (408mg)

There is no quick fix when it comes to treating acne, it can have a huge impact on self-confidence, quality of life and has also been linked to depression. Fortunately, Acne can be treated with Lymecycline, which kills the bacteria responsible for causing acne.

What are Lymecycline 405mg capsules?

Lymecycline is a tetracycline broad-spectrum antibiotic that is primarily used in the treatment of acne.

Lymecycline helps to kill and stop the spread of bacteria responsible for causing acne on the skin. It does this by starving them of essential proteins that they need to survive.

Lymecycline comes as a capsule that you swallow and is a prescription-only medicine (POM) for adults and children aged 12 and above.

What is Lymecycline used to treat?

Lymecycline tablets are used as a treatment for various infections, but they are predominantly used in the treatment of acne. The antibiotic works by reducing the redness and inflammation which occurs during acne breakouts, but it also prevents the skin's pores from clogging.

It is often sold under the brand name Tetralysal.

Lymecycline is a widely prescribed treatment for acne, although it may take up to 8 weeks before your acne clears.

How does Lymecycline work to treat acne?

Lymecycline belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics. It works to kill the bacteria that causes spots and pimples by preventing them from being able to create the proteins they need to survive and reproduce.

The bacteria, known as propionibacterium acnes, are responsible for a number of infections although they are predominantly known for their role in acne. 

P. acnes specifically feed on sebum, which is a naturally occurring oil produced by the sebaceous glands in the skin. However, when feeding on sebum causes the sebaceous glands to become inflamed causing redness, swelling and spots on the surface of the skin.

By killing and reducing the volume of bacteria present on the skin, the inflammation caused by the bacteria is decreased, thus improving the appearance of acne symptoms.

While it may take several weeks until your acne has cleared, you should start to notice an improvement within one week of taking Lymecycline.

Who can take Lymecycline?

Lymecycline is an effective treatment for acne, but it may not be suitable for everyone.

To ensure that Lymecycline is safe for you to use, you should inform your doctor if you:

• Have liver problems
• Have kidney problems
• Have ever had an allergic reaction to Lymecycline or any other medicine in the past
• Have an autoimmune disease called lupus
• Have the muscle-weakening condition myasthenia gravis

Can you buy Lymecycline over the counter?

No, Lymecycline is only available to buy when you have been prescribed it by a doctor.

Can you buy Lymecycline online in the UK?

Yes, you can buy Lymecycline online in the UK, but you should not order from anywhere other than regulated pharmacies, like Medicine Direct. 

As Lymecycline is a prescription-only medicine (POM), you must first complete an online consultation form. This is so one of our doctors, pharmacists or prescribers can review your answers to ensure that Lymecycline is safe and suitable for your condition.

Lymecycline alternatives

The branded version of Lymecycline, Tetralysal, can also be ordered from Medicine Direct after an online consultation.

Additionally, we stock various other medication that is widely prescribed for effective acne treatment. Alternative oral medicines available include Erythromycin and Minocycline.

Topical treatments like Acnecide, Duac gel or Dalacin T lotion are also available.

Visit the Acne page on our website to view the full range of treatments we stock.

Lymecycline dose

The usual dose of Lymecycline for treating acne is to:

The dosage may vary if you have been prescribed Lymecycline to treat a different type of infection. If this is the case, follow the instructions of your doctor.

How to take Lymecycline

Swallow one capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew the capsule.

Lymecycline can be taken with or without food, although you are less likely to experience nausea if you take it with food.

Keep taking Lymecycline until your course of treatment is completed, even if you notice an improvement or feel better. Prematurely stopping treatment may make the problem return.

Always read the patient information leaflet for comprehensive instructions. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure.

Our pharmacists and prescribers follow NICE prescribing guidelines when prescribing Lymecycline.

Lymecycline Common Side Effects

As is the case with all medicines, Lymecycline comes with the risk of certain side effects.

If you are using this medicine, common side effects include:

• Feeling sick
• Headaches or visual disturbances
• Diarrhoea
• Stomach pain

This list is not exhaustive; for the full list of undesired effects, please refer to our Side Effects tab on this page.

If you experience any of the above reactions, keep taking the medicine to treat your acne, but inform your doctor if these symptoms persist or bother you.

Please also refer to the patient information leaflet to familiarise yourself with the common and more adverse side effects.

If you notice any of the following symptoms, you should stop taking the medicine immediately and consult your doctor:

• Pale stools
• Your skin becomes very sensitive to sunlight
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes (this can be a sign of liver problems)

Lymecycline Warnings and drug interactions

Lymecycline may not react well with other drugs. You should let your doctor know if you are currently taking any medications before you start using Lymecycline:

For more information on medicines that interact with Lymecyline Capsules.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Tetracyclines such as Lymecycline are not usually prescribed to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your should always inform your doctor if you are planning to become pregnant while taking Lymecycline. 

Your doctor will assess your condition and weigh the benefits against the risks of you taking Lymecycline during pregnacy and breastfeeding. 

Can I drink alcohol whilst taking Lymecycline?

It is safe to drink alcohol whilst taking lymecycline capsules. Alcohol will not affect how effective lymecycline is when treating your acne, however it can increase your chances of experiencing side effects.

Lymecycline Ingredients

The main active ingredient within this medicine is: Lymecycline

For a full list of the inactive ingredients, please read the Summary of Product Characteristics

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Lymecycline FAQ's