Lymecycline and Benzoyl Peroxide gel

How do I take Lymecycline and apply Benzoyl Peroxide gel?

Take Lymecycline each morning with water.

Benzoyl Peroxide gel (generic Acnecide) should be applied in a thin layer after washing the affected area with a mild cleanser. It can be applied once or twice a day depending on how sensitive your skin is.

How does this combination acne treatment work?

Lymecycline is an antibiotic and works to kill the bacteria that cause acne. Benzoyl Peroxide gel also has an antibacterial quality, eradicating acne-causing bacteria. Added to this Benzoyl Peroxide gel breaks down keratin, a protein that forms part of the skin structure, and therefore breaks down blackheads and whiteheads as well as unblocking clogged pores.

Will Lymecycline and Benzoyl Peroxide gel be effective?

This combination treatment is most likely to be effective for those who experience either papules (small red bumps), pustules (small red bumps with white tips) and nodules/cysts, or a mixture of all three types of acne lesions.

It is likely to take up to 6 weeks before you notice any improvement in your acne.

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

Occasionally Lymecycline can cause side effects including nausea, diarrhoea, headaches and stomach pain.

Benzoyl Peroxide gel can make the skin more sensitive to sunlight, so it is important to wear suitable sunscreen. The treatment can also cause redness, dryness, skin peeling and a mild burning sensation to the affected area. Benzoyl Peroxide gel will also bleach fabric, towels and hair.  

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

Should I use Lymecycline or Benzoyl Peroxide gel during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

Neither medication should be used whilst pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will either Lymecycline or Benzoyl Peroxide gel react with other medications?

You should always let us know about any other medications you are taking, as Lymecycline can sometimes interfere with how other medications work.

While you are using Benzoyl Peroxide gel, avoid using any medications that contain high alcohol concentrations, tretinoin, isotretinoin or tazarotene.

Alternative acne treatments

Some people may use a topical gel or cream on its own to treat their acne, and some women who suffer from hormonal acne may be prescribed the contraceptive pill Co-cyprindiol (a common branded version being Dianette).

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.