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question

Why should I avoid taking my oral acne antibiotic at bedtime?

Dr. Doris Day, MD
Dr. Doris Day, MD
Dermatology
answer
When taking an oral antibiotic, it is important to know the dose you are taking and how many times a day you should take the medicine. Also, it is generally not a good idea to take these medications right before bedtime because this can lead to an irritation of the esophagus. Esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagus, which is the connection from the mouth to the stomach, can occur from oral antibiotics taken too soon before bedtime, with some oral antibiotics being more at risk for causing this than others. It is most commonly reversible, and stopping the medicine is often curative. It does serve as a strong reminder to take medications only as directed and to not share your medicines with friends or family. Be sure to tell your doctor about any side effects that you may be having, as the medication may need to be adjusted or stopped and changed to a different, more appropriated therapy.
100 Questions & Answers About Acne

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100 Questions & Answers About Acne

100 Questions and Answers About Acne provides you with all the information you need to manage your complexion problems. Written by Dr. Doris J. Day, a world-class expert in the field, this clearly...

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.