Doxycycline Rosacea Treatment Frequency

Rosacea is a condition that primarily affects older patients. It is characterized by a thinning of the skin in the nose and cheek area as well as a reddening of the skin as if the patient were blushing. Extreme cases may include inflammation and acne-like symptoms. Although there is no definitive cure for the condition, it can be controlled and the symptoms can be minimized. One effective method of controlling symptoms is through the use of antibiotics such as doxycycline.

Significance

According to the National Rosacea Society, an estimated 14 million Americans have rosacea. However, few of these patients are treated. In some patients, self-esteem issues make the condition life-disrupting. The condition begins as a slight redness over the cheeks and nose in the patient's mid-30s. Over time, if the condition is left untreated, large bumps and nodules may develop, and the nose may grow swollen and bumpy from excessive tissue.

Doxycycline

Patients who seek treatment for chronic rosacea have responded well to treatment by antibiotics including Doyxcycline. Doxycycline is a member of the tetracycline family and is used to treat a variety of infections. In teens, it is typically prescribed to treat acne.

How It Works

Doxycycline acts as a broad spectrum bacteriostatic. In other words, it inhibits the growth of several strains of bacteria that can cause rosacea symptoms.

Antibiotic-Related Side Effects

Patients who take doxycycline may experience the same side effects common in most antibiotics. Antibiotics have been shown to destroy beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract, which can lead to diarrhea. Additionally, antibiotics can cause stomach ache, vomiting and abdominal cramping. Dosing instructions for doxycycline specifically instruct patients to remain upright for approximately 30 minutes to avoid heartburn. Patients taking doxycycline may also experience skin sensitivity.

Doxycycline and Rosacea

However, rosacea patients typically take doxycycline in such low doses that side effects are minimal. According to Rosacea-Support.org, a dose as low as 50 mg per day is enough to see a significant benefit in rosacea symptoms without adversely affecting beneficial flora in the GI tract or causing other antibiotic-related side effects.

Resources

• Rosacea Guide.ca
• Drugs.com