Doxycycline 100mg Capsules & Finacea Gel

Doxycycline 100mg Caps & Finacea 15% Gel Combined Therapy

This combination provides an effective approach to acne treatment. Doxycycline is an oral antibiotic that works systemically to reduce acne-causing bacteria, while Finacea 15% Gel contains azelaic acid, which helps reduce inflammation, unclog pores, and promote skin cell turnover. Together, these medications provide a comprehensive solution for managing acne. Consistent use for a minimum of 3 months is recommended for optimal results, although some individuals may see improvements sooner.

Understanding Acne

Acne is a common skin condition that presents as spots, oily skin, and, at times, painful or warm sensations upon touching the affected areas. Although it predominantly affects teenagers, acne can occur at any age.

Essential Facts on Acne:

• Types of Spots: Acne can manifest in various forms, including:
  • Blackheads: Small, dark spots on the surface of the skin.
  • Whiteheads: Firm spots that are difficult to extract.
  • Papules: Small, red, tender bumps.
  • Pustules: Red spots with pus-filled heads.
  • Nodules: Large, painful lumps located deep beneath the skin.
  • Cysts: Large, pus-filled lumps that can result in scarring.
• Causes: The exact cause of acne is not fully understood, but factors like hormonal fluctuations, certain medications, and diet can contribute to its development. Hormonal changes may trigger excessive oil production from the sebaceous glands, and when combined with dead skin cells, this can lead to clogged pores and acne outbreaks.
• Who Gets Acne: Acne is most prevalent in teenagers and young adults due to hormonal changes during puberty, but many adults, particularly women, can experience acne as well.
• Identifying Acne: Frequent breakouts, particularly around the 'T-zone' (forehead, nose, chin), or oily skin with multiple types of spots may be indicative of acne.

Choosing the Right Acne Treatment:

Understanding the type and severity of your acne is essential to selecting the most appropriate treatment. Over-the-counter (OTC) treatments may work for mild cases, but more severe forms of acne often require prescription medications. If you're unsure about your acne type or if OTC treatments are not effective, consider completing our Express Consultation Form. Our experts are here to help guide you toward the best treatment for your condition.

The combination of Doxycycline 100mg caps and Finacea 15% Gel offers a powerful dual approach to acne treatment:

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Doxycycline is an antibiotic that is highly effective against bacteria that contribute to the development of acne, particularly Propionibacterium acnes. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis, preventing their growth and spread. This significantly reduces the bacteria responsible for acne, leading to fewer inflamed and non-inflamed lesions on the skin.

Finacea 15% Gel:

Finacea contains azelaic acid, which provides multiple benefits for acne treatment. It reduces keratin production, a substance that can block pores, while also decreasing inflammation and bacterial growth. Azelaic acid also helps lighten post-acne marks, resulting in a more even skin tone. This dual action makes Finacea an ideal complement to Doxycycline for a comprehensive acne management strategy.

Always read the provided patient information leaflet prior to consuming or applying any medication, and follow the instructions offered by your healthcare specialist. Here's a basic guideline for utilizing this combination treatment:

Set-up:

• Begin with clean hands. Wash them thoroughly with soap and water.
• Cleanse the area affected by acne with a mild, non-medicated cleanser. If you use a cleaning agent, ensure it doesn't contain alcohol or other potential skin irritants.
• Pat your skin dry using a soft towel. Avoid rubbing vigorously.

Procedure for Doxycycline 100mg caps:

• Consume the Doxycycline capsule with a full glass of water.
• Avoid lying down for at least 10 minutes after taking the capsule to prevent irritation in your throat.
• Always follow your physician's advice regarding the dosage and timing.

Procedure for Finacea 15% Gel:

• After ensuring the skin is clean and dry, apply a small amount of Finacea Gel to the affected areas.
• Gently massage the gel into the skin in circular motions until fully absorbed, avoiding the eyes, nose, and mouth.

Aftercare:

• Avoid washing the treated skin immediately after application. Ideally, keep the medication on the skin for several hours or as recommended by your healthcare provider.
• If you experience skin dryness or irritation, consider using a non-comedogenic moisturizer suitable for acne-prone skin.
• If heading outdoors, protect your skin with a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher, as acne treatments can increase sun sensitivity.

Usage Frequency:

Typically, Finacea is meant for twice-daily application, while Doxycycline's frequency will be as prescribed by your doctor. Ensure you follow the given guidelines for both.

Guiding Notes:

• When starting new acne treatments, it's essential to introduce them slowly to monitor any skin reactions.
• If any unusual symptoms such as increased irritation or redness arise, stop usage and consult your healthcare professional.
• Avoid using other medicinal skin products unless approved by your doctor.
• Patience is key. Seeing results with acne treatments can take several weeks. It's crucial to follow your healthcare expert's advice and consistently check-in regarding your progress and any concerns.

Skin Sensitivity:

Utilizing Doxycycline and Finacea may occasionally result in issues such as skin dryness, peeling, or irritation, especially during the early stages of treatment. If these symptoms persist or worsen, stop using the products and contact your healthcare professional.

Sun Exposure:

Doxycycline may increase the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Limit direct sun exposure while using this medication, and always apply sunscreen with at least SPF 30 when outdoors. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps.

Allergic Reactions:

Although rare, allergic reactions can occur. Signs such as severe redness, swelling, itching, or rashes should prompt you to discontinue use and seek immediate medical attention.

Eyes, Nose, and Mouth:

Take care to prevent Finacea gel from coming into contact with your eyes, nostrils, mouth, or other sensitive areas. In case of accidental contact, rinse thoroughly with water.

Concurrent Use of Other Products:

Avoid using other medicinal skin products at the same time, particularly those with peeling agents (e.g., salicylic acid), unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

Open Wounds:

Do not apply Finacea to sunburned, chapped, or wounded skin.

Oral Medication Interactions:

If you are taking other oral medications, especially other acne treatments, consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting Doxycycline or Finacea to prevent potential interactions.

Alcohol-based Products:

Avoid using alcohol-based skincare products while using Finacea, as it may increase skin dryness and irritation.

Storage:

Store these products at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.

Points to Remember:

• Always read the patient information leaflet provided with each product and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or notice unusual symptoms.
• Be aware that Doxycycline is associated with the potential for antibiotic-related diarrhea and colitis. If you experience these issues, stop taking the medication and seek medical advice immediately.
• Keep these products out of reach of children.
• Finacea is for external use, while Doxycycline is an oral medication. Always follow the prescribed method of application or ingestion. Exercise caution when using Finacea, particularly around the eyes.
• If you suspect an allergic reaction to any ingredient in these products, stop using them. For any side effects, such as rashes or irritation, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.

Do not use Doxycycline or Finacea during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to potential risks. There are alternatives that are safer and more effective for these particular scenarios. For detailed advice on managing acne during pregnancy, please see our Acne guide.

Ingredients: Doxycycline 100mg Caps and Finacea 15% Gel Combination Treatment

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Active Ingredient:

Doxycycline hyclate (equivalent to 100mg doxycycline).

Inactive Ingredients:

Sucrose, Maize Starch, Crospovidone, Polymethacrylate, and Talc. The Capsule Shell contains Gelatin and the Colourings E171, E132, and E172. The White Printing contains Shellac, Propylene Glycol, Ammonium Hydroxide, Potassium Hydroxide, and the Colour E171.

Finacea 15% Gel:

Active Ingredient:

Azelaic Acid (15%).

Inactive Ingredients:

Benzoic Acid (E210), Disodium Edetate, Lecithin, Medium Chain Triglycerides, Polysorbate 80, Propylene Glycol, Purified Water, Sodium Hydroxide, and Carbomer 980.

Note:

It is advisable to perform a patch test when adding a new product to your routine to check for any potential allergic reactions or sensitivities. If you experience any irritation or adverse reactions, discontinue use and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Potential Side Effects

All treatments have the potential for side effects. If you experience severe side effects, or if mild side effects persist, it's crucial to seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor without delay. This overview might not encompass all potential side effects, so it's always recommended to consult the patient information leaflet for an exhaustive list.

When using Doxycycline 100mg caps in conjunction with Finacea 15% Gel, side effects may arise from either medication or a combination of both. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and in many cases, they are temporary and will subside on their own. Here are the potential side effects for each medication:

Doxycycline 100mg Caps:

Common Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

• Nausea
• Headache
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Upset stomach

Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Vomiting
• Rash
• Dizziness

Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

• Yeast infections
• Increased pressure in the skull

Finacea 15% Gel:

Common Side Effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

• Burning or stinging sensation
• Itching or tingling of the skin
• Redness at the application site

Uncommon Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

• Dry skin
• Skin irritation
• Peeling of the skin

Rare Side Effects (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):

• Allergic skin reactions
• Skin discoloration
• Worsening of asthma symptoms

If any side effects become severe or if they persist and cause discomfort, consider discontinuing the product and promptly seeking medical advice.

Choosing the Right Acne Treatment

If you need a diagnosis, you can use our Express Consultation Form

Understanding that the cause and severity of acne varies among individuals is essential. Hence, the optimal treatment might differ for each person. Below is a list of alternative treatments:

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Options:

• Salicylic Acid Products: Useful for unclogging pores. Available as cleansers, toners, and spot treatments.
• Benzoyl Peroxide: A popular ingredient in many OTC acne products. It helps reduce acne-causing bacteria and can mitigate inflammation.
• Alpha Hydroxy Acids: Effective in removing dead skin cells and unclogging pores.
• Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser: A formula that's friendly to all skin types, helping eliminate excess oil without causing dryness.
• Cetaphil Moisturising Lotion: Offers hydration suitable for all skin types.
• Aveeno Cream and Lotion: Enriched with colloidal oatmeal, renowned for its calming properties.

Prescription Products:

• Differin 0.1% Gel and Cream: Contains adapalene, a kind of retinoid, known for its pore-unclogging and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Duac Gel (3% & 5%): Features benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin, an antibiotic effective in curbing bacteria growth.
• Skinoren 20% Cream: Packed with azelaic acid, which showcases anti-inflammatory and comedolytic properties.
• Oral Antibiotics: Examples include Doxycycline, Oxytetracycline, and Minocycline. They work by reducing bacteria and inflammation.
• Oral Contraceptives: Like Dianette and Eloine, they can manage hormones that trigger acne in females.
• Spironolactone: Originally designed for high blood pressure treatment, but it can also address acne in women by counteracting the effects of androgens on the skin.

Combination Treatments:

• Dalacin-T Lotion / Acnecide 5% gel Combination Treatment
• Zindaclin 1% gel / Differin 0.1% cream/gel Combination Treatment
• Doxycycline 100mg caps /Differin 0.1% cream/gel Combination Treatment