I am 37 years old and have had acne on my back since I was 15. I am taking minocycline, but I don't see any results after a week. Is this normal?

Hello sir,

Unfortunately, it is well and truly possible that you may not notice any visible effects after only 1 week of treatment. Generally speaking, the effectiveness of acne treatments is best seen after 2 to 3 months of treatment. This is also when the appropriateness of continuing or changing treatments is re-evaluated.

To optimize the effectiveness of your treatment, I suggest applying a ceramide-based emollient moisturizer, such as Cerave in the morning and evening, while using a gentle body cleanser during your hygiene care; unscented Dove, Cerave, Cutibase or lipikar Syndet. I also suggest limiting your showers/baths to a maximum of 10 minutes, avoiding hot water and washing no more than twice a day. These tips will reduce the risk of skin irritation. Finally, applying sunscreen is just as important considering the inflammatory aspect of acne and the increase in sun sensitivity with your antibiotic.

I would also refer you to your community pharmacist if you have any adverse effects with the antibiotic; digestive upset, hypersensitivity reaction, change in skin and teeth pigmentation, yellowing of the skin or eyes, fever, fatigue and joint/muscle pain.

I hope I have answered your question correctly.

Maeva Di-Re Pharmacy Student

Supervised by Alexandre Chagnon