Lymecycline is a tetracycline antibiotic derived from tetracycline, specifically a complex of tetracycline and lysine. The 408mg strength is equivalent to approximately 300mg of tetracycline base. It is a broad-spectrum bacteriostatic antibiotic that inhibits protein synthesis in susceptible bacteria. It is widely used in India for its efficacy in treating acne vulgaris and other bacterial infections, with the advantage of once-daily dosing improving patient compliance.
Adult: 408mg once daily, taken on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after food). For severe infections, 408mg every 12 hours may be initiated.
Note: Swallow the capsule whole with a full glass of water (at least 200mL) while in an upright or sitting position. Take at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals, dairy products, antacids, iron, calcium, or zinc supplements. Do not take immediately before bedtime.
Lymecycline binds reversibly to the 30S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria, preventing the binding of aminoacyl-tRNA to the acceptor site on the mRNA-ribosome complex. This inhibits the addition of amino acids to the growing peptide chain, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis.
Pregnancy: Category D. Contraindicated. Tetracyclines cross the placenta and can cause permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and enamel hypoplasia in the fetus, as well as retardation of skeletal development. Risk is greatest in the second and third trimesters.
Driving: Caution advised. May cause dizziness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision, which could impair driving ability.
| Antacids (Aluminum, Calcium, Magnesium) | Markedly decreased absorption of lymecycline due to chelation. | Major |
| Iron Supplements/Salts | Decreased absorption of both agents. Separate administration by 2-3 hours. | Major |
| Warfarin | Increased anticoagulant effect; increased risk of bleeding. | Major |
| Oral Contraceptives (Estrogen-containing) | Possible reduced contraceptive efficacy; risk of breakthrough bleeding. | Moderate |
| Retinoids (Isotretinoin, Acitretin) | Additive risk of benign intracranial hypertension. | Major |
| Methoxyflurane | Increased risk of nephrotoxicity. | Major |
| Penicillins | Antagonistic antibacterial effect; avoid concurrent use. | Moderate |
Same composition (Lymecycline (408mg)), different brands: