ATC code: J01AA04
Controlled studies on differences between men and women in lymecycline efficacy, safety and pharmacokinetic properties are lacking.
The present evidence concerning differences between men and women is very limited and do not motivate differentiation in dosing or treatment.
No studies with a clinically relevant sex analysis regarding pharmacokinetics or dosing of lymecycline have been found [6]. In general, transdermal absorption seems to be similar in men and women [7].
No studies with a clinically relevant sex analysis regarding effect of lymecycline have been found.
No studies with a clinically relevant sex analysis regarding adverse effects of lymecycline have been found.
Regarding teratogenic aspects, please consult Janusmed Drugs and Birth Defects (in Swedish, Janusmed fosterpåverkan).
Lymecycline is a tetracycline used for systemic treatment of acne. Tetracyclines can be incorporated in growing bones and teeth and lymecycline is therefore not recommended for use in children younger than 12 years and in pregnant or breastfeeding women [8].Acne is very common in teenagers, affecting 80-90% to some degree [1]. In a study of volunteers above the age of 25 years (322 men, 427 women) clinical facial acne was recorded in 3% and 12% of men and women, respectively [2].
A prospective study of quality of life and choice of therapy in acne (143 females, 68 males) found the quality of life to improve after treatment at a group level. Women had a lower quality of life score not correlated to severity of acne at start of the study. After six months of treatment with acne preparations the quality of life score correlated to clinical grading and also to treatment with isoretinoin [3].
Age and sex-matched acne patients (270 men, 270 women) with a mean age of 20 years had their skin pH measured, showing the pH of the female face to be slightly higher than that of the male one. Skin pH is affected by age, anatomical site, genetic factors, sebum, skin moisture, sweat, detergents, cosmetics, soaps, washing patterns, and occlusive dressing [4].
Healthy volunteers (30 men, 30 women) were studied to determined influencing factors for facial pores. Factors increasing pores were male sex, increased sebum and decreased skin elasticity [5].
Updated: 2020-08-28
Date of litterature search: 2016-06-15
Reviewed by: Mia von Euler
Approved by: Karin Schenck-Gustafsson