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Adeel Arshad

Authored on 24 January 2024 by Adeel Arshad,

Reviewed 24 January 2024 by Dr Ruch Karunadasa.

Efracea Capsules

(Doxycycline 40mg m/r)

Skincare medication

Efracea capsules are from a family of medicines called tetracycline antibiotics used to treat acne by killing the bacteria which cause the infection and inflammation.

Medication effect duration

The recommended dose is one capsule of Efracea each day in the morning, on an empty stomach, preferably at least one hour prior to or two hours.

Skin treatment

Take Efracea exactly as prescriped by your doctor. Taking more than your prescribed dose may increase the chance that intestinal bacteria will become resistant to Efracea.

How does Efracea work?

Efracea capsules are from a family of medicines called tetracycline antibiotics. It is used to treat acne by killing the bacteria which cause the infection and inflammation.

What condition(s) can Efracea be used for?

Efracea is used to treat the redness and pimples on the face of adults caused by a condition called rosacea.

How do I take Efracea?

Efracea should be taken in accordance with your prescriber's instructions.

The usual dose in adults and children over the age of 12 is one capsule daily, taken in the morning on an empty stomach (one hour before or two hours after food)

The capsule should be swallowed whole with plenty of water. Dairy products should be avoided around the same time of the day as Efracea but can be taken again 2-3 hours after your dose.

Full instructions can be found in the Efracea patient information leaflet.

Who cannot use Efracea?

Efracea Capsules are licensed for use in adults and children over the age of 12.

Do not use Efracea capsules if -
  • you are under the age of 12.
  • you are allergic or sensitive to the active ingredient or any of the excipients.
  • you are in your second or third trimester of pregnancy.
  • you are also taking oral retinoids.
  • you know you have, or suspect you might have, achlorhydria.
  • you have had surgery that excludes or bypasses the duodenum.

Please refer to the summary of product characteristics by reading the full list of contraindications and cautions for Efracea.

Can I use Efracea if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The administration of tetracyclines during the second and third trimester results in the permanent discolouration of teeth in the offspring. As a result, doxycycline should not be used during the second and third trimester.

What are the side effects associated with Efracea?

Like all medicines, Efracea capsules can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

Common side effects include -

  • Inflammation of the nose and throat
  • Inflammation of the sinuses
  • Fungal infection
  • Anxiety
  • Sinus headache
  • High or increased blood pressure
  • Diarrhoea
  • Pain in the upper part of the abdomen
  • Dry mouth
  • Back pain
  • Pain
  • Changes in some blood tests (amount of glucose in blood or tests of liver function)

A full list of side effects can be seen by reading the patient information leaflet for Efracea capsules.

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