Description
How it works
Tetralysal contains lymecycline, a tetracycline antibiotic. It helps acne by targeting bacteria and inflammation in the skin:
- Acne is partly driven by bacteria called Propionibacterium (Cutibacterium) acnes living in blocked hair follicles.
- Lymecycline enters these bacteria and blocks protein production, stopping them from growing and multiplying (it’s “bacteriostatic”).
- With fewer bacteria in the follicles, there is less inflammation, so:
- Red, sore spots gradually settle down
- Fewer new spots form
Because Tetralysal is taken by mouth, it works from the inside and can help acne on the face, back, chest and shoulders, including areas that are hard to treat with gels or creams alone.
You usually need to take it for several weeks to see a clear difference.
Who it may be suitable for
Tetralysal 300 is licensed for the treatment of acne and is generally suitable for:
- Adults and adolescents over 12 years of age
- With moderate inflammatory acne, for example:
- Red, inflamed spots and pustules
- Ongoing breakouts on the face, chest or back
- People who need an oral antibiotic because:
- Topical treatments alone haven’t been enough, or
- Acne affects larger areas of skin
On 24 HR Pharmacy, Tetralysal is supplied only after you complete an online acne consultation, which a UK prescriber reviews to check it’s safe and appropriate for you.
Who it may not be suitable for
From the SmPC, PIL and NHS lymecycline guidance, Tetralysal must not be used if:
- You are allergic to lymecycline, any other tetracycline antibiotic, or any capsule ingredient
- You are pregnant or trying to become pregnant
- You are breastfeeding (unless a specialist specifically advises it)
- You have advanced renal (kidney) insufficiency
- You are under 12 years old (risk of effects on growing bones and permanent tooth staining with tetracyclines – under 8s are specifically contraindicated)
Use only with medical advice and possible dose adjustment if you:
- Have kidney or liver problems
- Have systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or myasthenia gravis
- Have previously developed severe diarrhoea with antibiotics (risk of C. difficile colitis)
Pregnancy & breastfeeding
- Pregnancy: Tetralysal (lymecycline) is not recommended at any stage. Tetracyclines can affect bone growth and tooth development in the unborn baby.
- Breastfeeding: Small amounts can pass into breast milk and theoretically affect the baby’s bones and teeth; your doctor will usually choose an alternative.
Side Effects
Common (more than 1 in 100 people):
- Nausea (feeling sick)
- Abdominal (stomach) pain
- Diarrhoea
- Headache
These are usually mild and often improve as your body gets used to the medicine. Taking Tetralysal with food can help with nausea or stomach discomfort.
Other possible side effects (less common or rare):
- Photosensitivity – skin becomes more sensitive to sunlight/UV (you may burn more easily)
- Skin rash or itching
- Changes in liver function tests (usually picked up on blood tests)
- Difficulty swallowing or throat irritation (if the capsule lodges in the oesophagus)
- Oral or vaginal thrush (Candida overgrowth)
Serious but rare reactions – seek urgent medical help if you notice:
- Signs of severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis):
- Sudden swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat
- Difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness
- Severe dizziness or collapse
- Signs of liver problems:
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Persistent nausea, vomiting or severe tiredness
- Severe skin reactions:
- Widespread rash, blistering, peeling of skin
- Severe sunburn after only short sun exposure
- Severe or persistent diarrhoea, especially if watery or bloody (could indicate antibiotic-associated colitis)
- Severe headache with visual changes, which can rarely suggest raised pressure in the brain
If any of these happen, stop Tetralysal and seek medical help immediately (call 999 for severe allergic symptoms).
Patient Information Leaflet
Please see HERE for the Patient Information Leaflet
Additional Info
Key facts from the SmPC, PIL and 24 HR Pharmacy product page:
- Medicine name: Tetralysal 300 mg Hard Capsules
- Active ingredient: lymecycline 408 mg per capsule, equivalent to 300 mg tetracycline base
- Class: tetracycline antibiotic (ATC code J01AA04)
- Appearance: hard gelatin capsule, red cap and yellow body
- Main indication in this context: treatment of acne
- Usual acne dose: 1 capsule daily, continued for at least 8 weeks (often reviewed around 12 weeks)
- Children: safety and efficacy not established in children under 12 years; tetracyclines are contraindicated in children under 8 years due to effects on teeth and bones.
- Storage: usually do not store above 25°C; keep in the original pack, out of sight and reach of children (see pack for exact details).
From 24 HR Pharmacy:
- Tetralysal is listed under Acne → Prescription Only Medicines and supplied only after completion of an online acne consultation.
- Orders approved before 3 pm (Monday–Friday) are usually dispatched the same day.
Always read the patient information leaflet inside your pack before starting treatment.
Directions
Always take Tetralysal exactly as your prescriber and the pharmacy label advise.
From the SmPC and NHS guidance:
Usual dose for acne (adults & over-12s)
- 1 capsule (300 mg) once daily
- Often taken in the morning
- Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water
For acne, treatment should usually continue for at least 8 weeks, and is often reviewed around 12 weeks, depending on your response.
How to take it – practical tips
- Take the capsule sitting or standing upright, not lying down, to reduce the risk of throat irritation.
- You can take it with or without food; if you feel nauseous, taking it with food may help.
- Try to take it at the same time every day to keep levels steady.
- Complete the full course, even if your skin starts to look better earlier – stopping too soon can allow acne to flare again.
Important interactions & precautions
Tetracycline antibiotics interact with several medicines and supplements. Tell your prescriber about all medicines you take, including over-the-counter and herbal products. From NHS lymecycline guidance:
- Avoid taking Tetralysal at the same time as:
- Antacids and indigestion remedies
- Iron, zinc, calcium or magnesium supplements
- Some multivitamins and bismuth-containing products
- These can reduce absorption. Leave at least a 2-hour gap before or after Tetralysal (follow your doctor’s advice on spacing).
- Your doctor also needs to know if you take:
- Warfarin or other anticoagulants
- Oral retinoids (e.g. isotretinoin) – combination is generally avoided
- Certain medicines for epilepsy or heart conditions, or strong diuretics
Tetralysal can also make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunbeds, increasing the risk of burning – see “Common side effects” below.
Missed a dose?
From NHS lymecycline advice:
- If you forget a dose:
- Take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s getting close to your next scheduled dose.
- If it’s nearly time for the next one, skip the missed dose and take your next capsule at the usual time.
- Do not take two capsules at once and do not take extra doses to make up for one you missed.
If you accidentally take more than one extra capsule and feel unwell, contact your doctor, pharmacist or NHS 111 for advice.
FAQs
What is Tetralysal used for?
Tetralysal 300 mg is an oral antibiotic mainly used to treat acne. It belongs to the tetracycline group and works by reducing acne-causing bacteria and inflammation, helping current spots heal and reducing new breakouts.
How long does Tetralysal take to work?
Some people notice an improvement in redness and soreness after a few weeks. The SmPC (Summary of Product Characteristics) recommends treating acne for at least 8 weeks, and many prescribers will review your results after about 12 weeks of consistent use.
Can I go in the sun while taking Tetralysal?
You need to be more careful with sun exposure because Tetralysal (like other tetracyclines) can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunbeds. Use a high-factor sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and avoid prolonged periods in strong sun. If you develop severe burning, redness, or blistering, stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately.
Can I take Tetralysal with the contraceptive pill?
Tetralysal does not usually reduce the effectiveness of the combined or progestogen-only pill. However, if you experience severe diarrhoea or vomiting for more than 24 hours, your pill may not work as well—in this case, follow the “missed pill” advice in your contraceptive leaflet and consider using condoms as backup. Always tell your prescriber what contraception you’re using.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Tetralysal?
There is no major direct interaction between Tetralysal and moderate alcohol intake. However, both alcohol and antibiotics can irritate your stomach and potentially worsen side effects like nausea or diarrhoea. It is sensible to keep alcohol consumption within recommended limits and avoid it entirely if you are feeling unwell.
Can I use skin treatments at the same time as Tetralysal?
Often yes – and this is common in acne management – but it should be planned by a clinician: Tetralysal is often combined with topical non-antibiotic treatments such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, or retinoids (e.g., adapalene in Epiduo) as advised by your prescriber. However, you generally should not use another oral antibiotic for acne at the same time. Always avoid starting new prescription-strength acne treatments without first checking with your GP or 24 HR Pharmacy prescriber.
What happens if my acne comes back after finishing Tetralysal?
It is possible for acne to flare again after a course finishes, particularly if ongoing triggers like hormones, oily skin, or cosmetics are present. While some individuals do well after a single course and maintain results with topical treatments, others may require further courses or a different long-term approach, such as topical retinoids, hormonal treatments, or a specialist dermatology review. If your acne returns, speak to your GP, dermatologist, or 24 HR Pharmacy prescriber to plan the next step.
Who should definitely avoid Tetralysal?
You should not take Tetralysal if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant, are under 12 years old, or have advanced kidney disease (unless a specialist advises otherwise). Additionally, avoid it if you are breastfeeding (unless specifically advised by a specialist) or if you have ever had a serious allergic reaction to tetracyclines or any of the capsule ingredients.
How it works
Simple, safe, and designed around you. Here is what happens from start to finish.
Complete a Quick Online Assessment
Tell us about your health, goals, and any medicines you're taking. This helps us understand whether your chosen treatment is appropriate and safe for you.
Review by Our Prescriber
A UK-registered prescriber reviews your assessment—often the same day. If we need anything else, we'll contact you by secure message, phone, or email.
Fast, Discreet Dispensing & Delivery
Once approved, your treatment is dispensed and prepared for dispatch in plain, discreet packaging—no product names on the outside.
Ongoing Support
You'll receive easy, practical instructions tailored to your treatment—so you feel confident from day one.
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