Lymecycline capsules

About lymecycline

What is lymecycline used for?

Lymecycline is a type of antibiotic that is used to treat acne, bacterial infections including chest and sinus infections, and sexually transmitted infections, and infections in or around the mouth.

It is a broad-spectrum antibiotic, meaning it is used to treat a wide variety of infections and skin problems.

Side effects of lymecycline

Common side effects of lymecycline are:

• Feeling sick.

• Stomach pain.

• Diarrhoea.

• Headache.

A full list of the side effects which can be associated with your medicine, is from the manufacturer's printed information leaflet supplied with the medicine.

Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following continue or become troublesome.

How to manage lymecycline side effects

Who should not take lymecycline?

Some medicines are not suitable for people with certain conditions, and sometimes a medicine can only be used if extra care is taken. For these reasons, before you start taking lymecycline it is important that your doctor knows:

• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If so, you should not take lymecycline.

• If you are under 12 years of age. Lymecycline should not be given to children under 12 years old.

• If you have any problems with the way your liver works, or if you have any problems with the way your kidneys work.

• If you have an inflammatory condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (also called lupus, or SLE), or if you have a condition causing muscle weakness, called myasthenia gravis. Lymecycline can make these conditions worse.

• If you are taking any other medicines. This includes any medicines you are taking which are available to buy without a prescription, as well as herbal and complementary medicines.

• If you have ever had an allergic reaction to a medicine.

How to take lymecycline

• Read the leaflet in the pack before starting lymecycline. It explains how to take it and lists possible side effects.

• Take lymecycline exactly as your doctor tells you to and always check the label for the correct dose.

  • For infections it is usually 1-2 capsules twice a day.

  • For acne it is usually one capsule a day.

• Each capsule contains 408 mg of lymecycline. This is equivalent to 300 mg of a similar medicine called tetracycline. Either of these strengths may be printed on the label.

• Take doses at the same time each day and space them evenly if taking more than once.

• The capsules can cause throat irritation. To prevent this, swallow them with a large drink of water, and do not open or chew the capsules.

• Try to avoid taking the capsules just before lying down or at bedtime. Lymecycline can be taken either with or without food.

• If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Try to take the correct number of doses each day, but do not take two doses together to make up for a missed dose.
  

Getting the most from your treatment

• Treatment usually lasts for a week for infections or up to eight weeks for acne. Keep taking it until you finish the course, unless your doctor says otherwise.

• Check with a pharmacist before taking other medicines as a number of 'over-the-counter' remedies can interfere with it.

  • Avoid antacids or supplements with iron, magnesium, or zinc within 2 hours before or after lymecycline a they can make it less effective.

• Some people develop thrush (redness and itchiness in the mouth or vagina) after taking a course of an antibiotic. If this happens to you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

• Lymecycline can cause your skin to become more sensitive to sunlight than usual. Avoid strong sunlight and sunbeds until you know how your skin reacts.

• This antibiotic can stop the oral typhoid vaccine from working. If you are due to have any vaccinations, make sure the person treating you knows that you are taking this medicine.

How to store lymecycline

• Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.

• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take for lymecycline to work?

Lymecycline doesn’t work immediately. Most people start to see improvement in their acne after 6-8 weeks of daily treatment. It can take up to 12 weeks for the full effect, so it’s important to continue taking it as prescribed even if results are slow at first.

Does lymecycline cure acne permanently?

Lymecycline can reduce inflammation and improve acne while you’re taking it, but it doesn’t provide a permanent cure. Acne may return after treatment stops, so it’s often used alongside topical treatments to help maintain results.

Is it safe to take lymecycline during pregnancy?

Lymecycline is not recommended during pregnancy, as tetracycline antibiotics can affect a baby’s developing teeth and bones. Your doctor will usually suggest a safer alternative if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Can you drink alcohol on lymecycline?

Yes - drinking alcohol in moderation is generally safe while taking lymecycline. However, alcohol can sometimes worsen side effects like stomach upset, so it’s best to keep intake low if you notice any problems.

Can you take flucloxacillin with lymecycline?

Flucloxacillin and lymecycline are not usually taken together, as they can affect each other’s effectiveness. Your doctor may choose an alternative antibiotic or adjust your treatment depending on the infection being treated.