Overview
What is it?
Oral sarecycline is a prescription medication specifically designed to treat moderate-to-severe acne. It is a narrow-spectrum tetracycline antibiotic, meaning it targets specific bacteria associated with acne rather than a broad range of bacteria. Unlike some other tetracyclines, sarecycline is not naturally occurring; it is a synthetic derivative developed to minimize side effects while effectively treating acne.
How does it work?
Sarecycline works by targeting the bacteria *Cutibacterium acnes* (formerly *Propionibacterium acnes*), which plays a key role in acne development. It inhibits bacterial protein synthesis, reducing inflammation and the growth of acne-causing bacteria. Additionally, sarecycline has anti-inflammatory properties, which help calm the redness and swelling associated with acne lesions.
What are the benefits?
Sarecycline offers several benefits for acne treatment. It is taken once daily, making it convenient for users. As a narrow-spectrum antibiotic, it is less likely to disrupt the body's natural microbiome compared to broad-spectrum antibiotics. It is also the first systemic antibiotic FDA-approved specifically for acne treatment, highlighting its targeted effectiveness .
Effectiveness
What does the research say?
Research shows that sarecycline is effective in reducing inflammatory acne lesions. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant improvements in acne severity with a 12-week course of treatment. Its narrow-spectrum activity helps minimize the risk of antibiotic resistance, a common concern with other tetracyclines used for acne .
Side Effects
Tooth discoloration
Tooth discoloration: Prolonged use of tetracyclines, including sarecycline, can lead to permanent staining of teeth, especially in children under 8 years old or during pregnancy and breastfeeding .
Serum enzyme elevations
Serum enzyme elevations: Rare cases of elevated liver enzymes have been reported, though clinically apparent liver injury has not been definitively linked to sarecycline .
Gastrointestinal discomfort
Gastrointestinal discomfort: Some users may experience mild stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhea, which are common side effects of many antibiotics.
Evidence
Clinical Studies & Trials
[1] Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris.
This paper provides guidelines for managing acne vulgaris, a common condition affecting adolescents and adults.
View study[2] Novel and emerging treatment options for acne vulgaris.
This review discusses new and emerging treatments for acne, including sarecycline, and their mechanisms of action.
View study[3] Sarecycline
This paper discusses the use of sarecycline for acne treatment and its potential side effects, particularly during breastfeeding.
View study[4] Tetracycline and other tetracycline-derivative staining of the teeth and oral cavity.
This paper reviews the side effects of tetracyclines, including tooth discoloration, and their mechanisms.
View study[5] New Acne Therapies and Updates on Use of Spironolactone and Isotretinoin: A Narrative Review.
This review discusses new acne treatments, including topical tazarotene, and their efficacy and side effects.
View study[6] ARTICLE: A Novel Antibiotic Just for Acne.
This article highlights sarecycline as the first systemic antibiotic FDA-approved specifically for acne treatment.
View study[7] Sarecycline
This paper provides an overview of sarecycline, its use for acne, and its potential side effects, including liver enzyme elevations.
View study