Efracea

Efracea is an oral treatment for rosacea. It specifically treats a type of rosacea called papulopustular facial rosacea, which causes acne-like pimples as well as facial redness.

Efracea for rosacea works by targeting the inflammation that causes pimples and redness. It is available as modified-release capsules. This means the medicine is released into your body more gradually to reduce potential side effects.

Efracea contains doxycycline, an antibiotic mainly used to treat bacterial infections. However, in low modified-release doses, it has an anti-inflammatory effect without killing any bacteria.

• It reduces the activity of pro-inflammatory substances (e.g. cytokines) and certain enzymes that promote inflammation.
• It also reduces the activity of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell which has been linked to inflammation.
• This calms the immune system to help control the symptoms of rosacea.

The modified-release form allows for a low but steady concentration of doxycycline in the body. This maximises effectiveness while minimising antibiotic side effects and preventing antibiotic resistance.

Several studies have shown that Efracea is an effective rosacea treatment.

One study with over 500 participants compared the effects of Efracea to a placebo (an inactive drug).

• Reduced pimples - those on Efracea had a significantly reduced lesion count (-11.8) compared to those on the placebo (-5.9), meaning they had significantly fewer pimples or pustules.
• Works in 3 weeks - Significant changes in Efracea users were observed after 3 weeks of treatment and continued throughout the 16-week study period.
• Reduced redness - participants on Efracea also experienced a significant reduction in redness compared to those using the placebo.

They also observed that Efracea was well tolerated, with similar rates of side effects in both placebo and Efracea users.

Efracea should start working within 3 weeks of taking it. If you see no improvement after 6 weeks, you should stop using Efracea and consult your doctor for alternatives.

Most adults over the age can use Efracea for papulopustular facial rosacea.

You cannot take Efracea if you:

• are allergic to Efracea or any of the inactive ingredients
• are pregnant or breastfeeding
• are taking other medications for skin conditions like retinoids

Talk to your doctor before using Efracea if you:

• have alcohol dependence
• have myasthenia gravis (a condition which causes muscle weakness)
• have systemic lupus erythematosus (an autoimmune disease)
• have kidney or liver problems
• have porphyria (a rare blood condition)
• have oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus)
• are likely to be exposed to strong sunlight

This is because you may be at an increased risk of side effects.

Efracea (Doxycycline) is available as 40 mg modified-release capsules. You must take one 40 mg capsule a day in the morning.

You should take Efracea on an empty stomach. Wait at least 1-2 hours after eating before taking it. Swallow each capsule whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush capsules.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

Like all prescription medicines, Efracea may cause side effects. The most common side effects should go away on their own once your body gets used to the medicine.

Common side effects (up to 1 in 10 people):

• inflammation of the nose and throat
• inflammation of the sinuses
• fungal infection
• anxiety
• high blood pressure
• stomach pain
• dry mouth
• back pain
• changes in some blood tests (e.g. blood glucose or liver function tests)

Speak to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any persistent or serious side effects. If you experience any rare side effects, such as an allergic reaction, seek emergency medical attention.

For a full list of side effects, please refer to the patient information leaflet (PIL) which comes in the box with your medicine.

No, you should avoid drinking excessive amounts of alcohol while on Efracea, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the treatment.

No, Efracea is not available without a prescription. You need a valid prescription from a healthcare professional to purchase it. This ensures the medication is safe and suitable for your needs.

Efracea is unlikely to improve broken capillaries or spider veins. If you have broken capillaries, you should consult your doctor or dermatologist for more advice.

Efracea is not designed to treat eye rosacea (ocular rosacea). If you think you have eye rosacea, you will likely need topical treatment. You should consult your doctor or dermatologist for more advice.