• Basic Info
• Top Questions

What is tetracycline topical?
Tetracycline is an antibiotic. Tetracycline topical prevents bacteria from growing on the skin. Tetracycline is used topically to treat bacterial infections such as acne. Tetracycline topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

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What are the possible side effects of tetracycline topical?

Serious side effects are not expected to occur from treatment with tetracycline topical.

Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur such as burning, stinging, or irritation of the skin. Continue to use tetracycline topical and talk to your doctor if these side effects persist or are excessive.

Tetracycline topical may cause yellowing of the skin. This staining can be removed by washing with mild soap and water.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

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How should I use tetracycline topical?
Use tetracycline topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you. Wash your hands before and after using this medication. Clean and dry the area to which you will apply tetracycline topical. Apply the solution generously until the skin is thoroughly wet. Tetracycline is usually applied twice daily in the morning and evening. Follow your doctor's directions. To prevent excessive irritation, avoid getting the medication in the eyes, inside of the nose or mouth, on the lips, and in areas where the skin is broken.

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What is the most important information I should know about tetracycline topical?
It may take 3 weeks or more to see the effects of this medication. Do not stop using tetracycline topical if you do not see results immediately. Avoid the eyes, nose, mouth, and lips when applying tetracycline topical. If medication gets in any of these areas, rinse with water. Tetracycline topical may cause yellowing of the skin. This staining can be removed by washing with mild soap and water.

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What happens if I miss a dose?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.

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What other drugs will affect tetracycline topical?
Do not use other topical prescription or over-the-counter products on the same area at the same time unless directed to do so by your doctor. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with tetracycline topical. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before using other prescription or over-the-counter medications, including herbal products.

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Can I take this if I am pregnant or trying to get pregnant or if I am breastfeeding?

Tetracycline topical has been assigned to pregnancy category B by the FDA. Animal studies have not revealed evidence of embryotoxicity and teratogenicity. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy. Systemic administration of tetracycline has been associated with yellow-gray-brown discoloration of teeth in infants whose mothers took tetracycline in late pregnancy. Tetracycline topical is only recommended for use during pregnancy when benefits outweighs risk.

There are no data on the excretion of tetracycline topical into human milk. Systemic tetracycline is excreted into human milk in small amounts. Theoretical risks of dental staining and inhibition of bone growth exist, although unlikely. In one study, tetracycline levels were undetectable in nursing infants. Tetracycline is considered compatible with breast-feeding by the American Academy of Pediatrics.

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What does my medication look like?
Tetracycline topical is available with a prescription under the brand name Topicycline in a solution with a strength of 2.2 mg per mL. Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

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What happens if I overdose?
An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. Seek emergency medical attention if tetracycline topical is ingested or a very large amount is used.

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What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before using tetracycline topical?
Do not use tetracycline topical without first talking to your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it. Tetracycline topical is in the FDA pregnancy category B. This means that it is not expected to be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not use tetracycline topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant. It is not known whether tetracycline topical passes into breast milk. Do not use tetracycline without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

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Can I stop taking the medication if I feel better?
As a general rule, you should always take your medications exactly as prescribed and do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without first discussing it with your healthcare provider.

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I am on so many medications; do I have to take them all?
This is called polypharmacy—many different medications being used at the same time by one person. Sometimes, being on multiple medications is acceptable and appropriate but at other times it may be problematic. If you are receiving your medications from multiple physicians you need to ensure that they all know what medications you are taking. The best way to do this is to make a list of all the medications you are currently using, including all nutritional supplements, homeopathic remedies, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs (if possible, also include all the diseases you have been diagnosed with). Give a copy to every doctor who takes care of you so they have it on file, this way they can avoid duplicating medications and perhaps even try to consolidate some. After every doctor's visit remember to update the list accordingly. Also, as much as you possibly can, try to use the same pharmacy to fill all your prescriptions, this way any potential drug interactions can be caught and averted.

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