Doxycycline and Benzoyl Peroxide gel

How do I take Doxycycline and apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel?

You should take Doxycycline once a day with a meal, lots of water and make sure you are sitting or standing. It is important to also leave some time between taking the tablet and going to bed.

Benzoyl Peroxide gel (generic Acnecide) should be applied to clean, dry skin once or twice a day depending on how your skin reacts to the treatment.

How will Doxycycline and Benzoyl Peroxide gel work?

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that works to kill the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl Peroxide gel also works to eradicate the bacteria that cause acne, as it has antibacterial qualities. Added to this

Benzoyl Peroxide gel breaks down keratin, a protein that is a part of the skin’s structure. This means it breaks down blackheads and whiteheads, as well as unblocking sebaceous glands.

Is this pairing of treatments effective?

This combination of acne treatments is most effective for those people who experience papules (small red bumps), pustules (red bumps with white tips) and nodules or cysts (much larger lumps which are more likely to cause scarring).

The antibacterial nature of both medications makes it an effective treatment for tackling the cause of acne. Benzoyl Peroxide gel will also work on the appearance of acne, clearing inflammation and redness.

Are there any side effects to Doxycycline or Benzoyl Peroxide gel?

Both Doxycycline and Benzoyl Peroxide gel are likely to make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, sunbeds and sun lamps should be avoided and a suitable SPF should be worn.

Doxycycline can, for some people, cause nausea, abdominal pain, dizziness and shortness of breath. Benzoyl Peroxide gel can cause a mild burning sensation, redness, dryness, peeling skin. It is also worth bearing in mind Benzoyl Peroxide gel will bleach, hair and fabric it comes into contact with.

For full information on side effects and correct use, see the Doxycycline and Benzoyl Peroxide patient information leaflets.

Is it safe to take Doxycycline or apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Neither Doxycycline or Benzoyl Peroxide gel should be used while pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will either of these medications interact with other medicines?

Doxycycline can interfere with the effectiveness of other medications, so it is important you let us know about any medications you may be taking when you request this treatment.

Avoid using any medications that contain high alcohol concentrations, tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene alongside Benzoyl Peroxide gel, as this could increase irritation.

Alternative acne treatments

Instead of taking oral antibiotics, some women may be prescribed the oral contraceptive Co-cyprindiol alongside a topical solution to treat their acne. Some people who experience acne may just prescribed a cream or gel along to tackle their condition. 

Reordering treatment

We will contact you through your Patient Record 6 weeks from your order to see how you are getting on with the medication. We may ask for some photos at this time as well to assess the response to treatment. It will also be an opportunity for you to give us feedback on your acne. Go to your Patient Record and select ‘reorder’. You will be required to fill in the online questionnaire each time you reorder.