Tetracycline skin solution
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What is tetracycline skin lotion?
TETRACYCLINE (Achromycin®) is an antibiotic. Tetracycline skin solution treats inflammatory acne. Generic tetracycline skin solution is not available.
What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
• an unusual or allergic reaction to tetracycline antibiotics, sulfites, other foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Tetracycline skin solution is only for external use on the skin. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Wash the affected area with soap and water, rinse well and pat dry. Wait 30 minutes after shaving or washing before applying the solution. The bottle will have an applicator top. Tilt the bottle and apply the solution. Cover all pimples and the surrounding area until the skin is wet. Keep away from the eyes, nose, or mouth.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What drug(s) may interact with tetracycline?
• other antibiotic medicines
Do not use corticosteroid skin products (such as dexamethasone, hydrocortisone and prednisolone) at the same time as this medicine as they can cover up problems. Do not use any other skin products without telling your prescriber or health care professional. Check before starting or stopping any of your medicines or non-prescription products.
What should I watch for while taking tetracycline?
Tell your prescriber or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve in 4 to 6 weeks.
Do not wash your face more than 2 to 3 times a day. Frequent washing can make your skin very dry, scale or peel. Let your prescriber or health care professional know if this happens. Do not use any soothing cream or ointment without advice.
Tetracycline skin solution contains alcohol and can catch fire. Keep away from lighted matches, cigarettes and other naked flames.
Do not get the solution in your eyes; if you do, rinse out with plenty of cool tap water.
You can use makeup while using this medicine. Only use water-based products and apply lightly.
This medicine can color your skin yellow. This color will wash off with soap and water, but you should leave the medicine on the skin as long as you can. This yellow color will look worse under ultraviolet light. If you are going to a disco where they use this kind of light, either wash off the medicine before you go, or apply afterwards.
Keep the solution off your clothes; it can stain them.
What side effects may I notice from using tetracycline?
Side effects with tetracycline skin products are rare. They include:
• dry, scaly skin
• skin irritation, blistering, burning, peeling or itching
• redness, swelling, pain
• yellowing of the skin
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children in a container that small children cannot open.
After mixing the solution store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F); do not freeze. Use within 2 months. Throw away any unused solution.
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
