Products
Lymecycline is commercially available in the form of capsules (Tetralysal). It was approved in many countries in 2005.
Structure and properties
Lymecycline (C29H38N4O10, Mr = 602.6 g/mol) is a water-soluble prodrug of the antibiotic tetracycline with the amino acid lysine. Lymecycline is better absorbed than tetracycline.
Effects
Lymecycline (ATC J01AA04) has bacteriostatic properties against . The effects are due to inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30S subunit of ribosomes. In addition, other mechanisms play a role that are independent of the antibacterial effect.
Indications
For the treatment of acne vulgaris (common acne). In some countries, lymecycline is also approved for the treatment of bacterial infectious diseases.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The capsule is taken once daily in the morning with a glass of water, regardless of meals. The duration of therapy is up to 12 weeks.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Severe renal dysfunction
- Children under 8 years
- Therapy with oral retinoids
- Pregnancy, lactation
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Drug-drug interactions have been described with the following substances:
- Aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, and bismuth may reduce the absorption of lymecycline
- Retinoids
- Anticoagulants
- Didanosine
- Oral contraceptives
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include headache, nausea, and upper abdominal pain. Tetracyclines may make the skin sensitive to the sun (photosensitivity).
