Efracea 40mg MR Capsules are a prescription medication used to treat rosacea, a long-term skin condition that causes redness, bumps, and pimples on the face. They contain doxycycline, a type of antibiotic, in a modified-release (MR) formulation designed specifically for managing rosacea symptoms in adults.
Unlike standard doxycycline, which is used at higher doses to treat bacterial infections, Efracea is formulated at a lower dose to target inflammation without significantly affecting bacteria. This makes it a suitable option for long-term rosacea treatment, reducing flare-ups and improving skin appearance.
How does Efracea 40mg MR work?
Efracea works by reducing inflammation rather than acting as a traditional antibiotic. The lower-dose doxycycline:
Decreases inflammation in the skin, helping to reduce redness, swelling, and breakouts.
Prevents flare-ups by targeting the underlying causes of rosacea.
Maintains long-term results with daily use.
Since it is designed to control inflammation rather than kill bacteria, Efracea has a lower risk of contributing to antibiotic resistance.
What is Efracea 40mg MR used for?
Efracea is prescribed for moderate to severe rosacea, specifically for reducing inflammatory lesions (red bumps and pimples). It is not intended for:
Treating bacterial infections
Managing mild rosacea with only redness (erythema)
Acne treatment
How to take Efracea 40mg MR Capsules
Take one capsule per day, preferably in the morning.
Swallow whole with a full glass of water, do not crush or chew.
Avoid taking it with dairy products, as calcium can interfere with absorption.
Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the capsule to prevent irritation in the throat.
Continue treatment as directed by your doctor, as rosacea requires long-term management.
Who should not take Efracea 40mg MR?
Do not take this medication if you:
Are allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics.
Are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
Have severe liver or kidney disease.
Have a condition that affects your ability to swallow.
Are under 12 years old, as doxycycline can affect tooth development.
Speak to your doctor if you have liver disease, autoimmune conditions, or if you are taking other medications that may interact with doxycycline.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medicines, Efracea can cause side effects, but not everyone will experience them.
Common side effects:
Nausea
Stomach pain
Diarrhoea
Headaches
Sensitivity to sunlight (increased risk of sunburn)
Less common but serious side effects:
Severe allergic reactions (swelling of the face, lips, or difficulty breathing)
Severe skin reactions, including blistering or peeling
Liver issues (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
If you experience severe side effects, stop taking Efracea and seek medical advice immediately.
Does Efracea 40mg MR interact with other medicines?
Certain medications may interfere with Efracea or reduce its effectiveness. Let your doctor know if you are taking:
Antacids, calcium, or iron supplements – these can reduce absorption.
Blood thinners (warfarin) – doxycycline may increase the risk of bleeding.
Oral contraceptives – while rare, antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Medications for epilepsy (e.g., phenytoin or carbamazepine) – may lower the effect of doxycycline.
Avoid alcohol while taking Efracea, as it may impact effectiveness.
How long does it take for Efracea to work?
Some improvement can be seen within 4 to 6 weeks.
Best results are usually noticed after 12 weeks of continuous use.
Treatment duration varies depending on individual response and doctor recommendations.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Efracea?
While alcohol does not directly interact with Efracea, excessive drinking may worsen rosacea symptoms and reduce treatment effectiveness. It is best to limit alcohol intake during treatment.
Where can I buy Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
You can purchase Efracea online from courierpharmacy.co.uk after completing a short online consultation with a licensed healthcare professional.
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What are Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
Efracea 40mg MR Capsules contain doxycycline, an antibiotic known for its anti-inflammatory effects. This medication is designed for adults to help manage rosacea, a long-term skin condition that causes redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like breakouts on the face.
Unlike standard antibiotics, Efracea is a low-dose, modified-release treatment that reduces inflammation without significantly affecting bacteria. This makes it a suitable option for long-term rosacea management while lowering the risk of antibiotic resistance.
How does Efracea work?
Efracea works by reducing inflammation rather than directly killing bacteria. It helps to control the symptoms of rosacea by:
Reducing the number of red bumps, pustules, and acne-like breakouts
Minimising inflammation that causes facial redness
Preventing flare-ups with long-term use
Because Efracea is a modified-release (MR) capsule, the medication is gradually released into the body, ensuring consistent and effective symptom relief throughout the day.
Who can use Efracea?
Efracea is suitable for adults diagnosed with rosacea who experience inflammatory breakouts and persistent facial redness. It is not recommended for:
Children or adolescents under 18 years old
People allergic to doxycycline or other tetracycline antibiotics
Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Those with severe liver or kidney problems
If you are unsure whether Efracea is right for you, speak with a doctor or pharmacist before starting treatment.
How to take Efracea
Take one capsule daily, preferably in the morning with a full glass of water.
Do not chew or break the capsule—swallow it whole.
Avoid taking Efracea with dairy products, as this may reduce its effectiveness.
Do not lie down immediately after taking the medication to prevent irritation of the oesophagus.
Follow your doctor’s advice on how long to continue treatment.
How long does Efracea take to work?
Many people start noticing improvements in their rosacea symptoms within four weeks of starting Efracea. However, full results may take up to 12 weeks. Consistent use is key to maintaining long-term symptom relief.
What are the possible side effects?
Like all medications, Efracea may cause side effects, though not everyone experiences them. The most common side effects include:
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Headache
Abdominal pain
Increased sensitivity to sunlight
If you experience severe side effects such as difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, or severe skin reactions, stop taking Efracea and seek medical attention immediately.
Can I use Efracea with other treatments?
Efracea can be used alongside some topical rosacea treatments, but it is important to check with your doctor before combining medications. Avoid taking other antibiotics while using Efracea unless prescribed.
Where can I buy Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
You can purchase Efracea 40mg MR Capsules online from courierpharmacy.co.uk after completing a short online consultation. A doctor will review your details to ensure the medication is suitable for you before approving your order.
What is the active ingredient in Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
Efracea 40mg MR Capsules contain doxycycline monohydrate as the active ingredient. Doxycycline is a type of antibiotic from the tetracycline family, but in Efracea, it is used at a low dose with a modified-release formula. This means it works primarily to reduce inflammation rather than fight bacterial infections.
Doxycycline in Efracea helps to control rosacea symptoms by:
Reducing redness and swelling
Minimising inflammatory breakouts like pimples and bumps
Preventing flare-ups when used consistently
Since Efracea is designed to control inflammation rather than kill bacteria, it is effective for long-term rosacea management while lowering the risk of antibiotic resistance.
What are Efracea 40mg MR Capsules used for?
Efracea 40mg MR Capsules are prescribed to treat inflammatory lesions linked to rosacea in adults. Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that mainly affects the face, leading to redness, visible blood vessels, and acne-like bumps. Efracea helps reduce the number and severity of these lesions, improving the overall appearance of the skin while keeping rosacea symptoms under control. It is particularly effective for reducing red bumps and pustules (papules and pustules) commonly associated with rosacea.
What is Rosacea?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that typically affects the face, causing persistent redness, visible veins, and sometimes small, red, pus-filled bumps. It often starts with frequent blushing or flushing, which can gradually worsen, leading to permanent redness and inflamed blood vessels.
Rosacea symptoms can vary in severity and may include:
Swelling: Affected areas of the skin may become swollen, tender, and sensitive.
Eye Irritation: Some people experience dry, irritated, or swollen eyes, a condition known as ocular rosacea.
Thickened Skin: In severe cases, especially in men, the skin may thicken, particularly around the nose, leading to rhinophyma.
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but experts believe it is influenced by genetics, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices. Common triggers for rosacea flare-ups include:
Sun exposure
Stress
Alcohol
Spicy foods
Hot drinks
Extreme weather conditions (hot or cold)
Rosacea is more common in people with fair skin and usually develops in adults over 30. While there is no cure, symptoms can be managed through treatments like oral antibiotics, topical medications, and lifestyle adjustments to avoid known triggers.
How Do Efracea 40mg MR Capsules Work?
Efracea 40mg MR Capsules contain doxycycline, an antibiotic from the tetracycline family. Unlike standard antibiotics, Efracea is designed to work at a lower dose, focusing on reducing inflammation rather than killing bacteria.
How Does Efracea Help Treat Rosacea?
Anti-Inflammatory Properties: The low-dose doxycycline in Efracea helps reduce the redness, swelling, and pimples associated with rosacea.
Enzyme Inhibition: It blocks certain enzymes, known as matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), which contribute to inflammation and skin irritation.
Mild Antibacterial Effect: While not strong enough to work as a full antibiotic, the small dose helps lower bacteria levels on the skin that may worsen rosacea.
Extended-Release Formula: Efracea is a modified-release (MR) medication, meaning it releases gradually throughout the day. This provides a steady effect while minimising side effects.
By targeting inflammation and mildly reducing bacterial presence, Efracea helps improve rosacea symptoms, making flare-ups less frequent and reducing skin irritation.
Rosacea and Efracea
Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that affects the face, often causing:
Thickened skin
Visible blood vessels
Persistent redness and flushing
Small raised spots (papules)
Pus-filled bumps (pustules)
Around 10% of people experience some form of rosacea, though its exact cause is unknown. Some potential triggers include:
Sun exposure
Skin mites (Demodex folliculorum)
Certain peptides in the skin that become overactive due to alcohol, spicy foods, or stress
These factors can stimulate the immune system, leading to rosacea symptoms.
Efracea is a suitable long-term treatment for managing rosacea. It provides consistent relief without the risks associated with high-dose antibiotics. While its precise mechanism in treating rosacea isn’t fully understood, it is believed to work by reducing inflammation, preventing bacteria from spreading, and helping to clear pustules and other skin issues.
Common Triggers for Rosacea Flare-Ups
Alcohol
Caffeine
Dairy products
Extreme temperatures
Sun exposure
Stress
By helping to control inflammation and bacterial activity, Efracea provides an effective option for those seeking long-term relief from rosacea.
How to Take Efracea 40mg MR Capsules
Always follow your doctor's instructions when taking Efracea. If you are unsure about anything, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
Dosage Instructions
Take one Efracea capsule per day.
It should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach.
Ideally, take it at least one hour before or two hours after eating.
Swallow the capsule whole without chewing.
Take it with a full glass of water while sitting or standing to prevent irritation to your throat.
What to Do If You Take Too Much
Taking more than the recommended dose can harm your liver, kidneys, or pancreas.
If you accidentally take too many capsules, seek medical advice immediately.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
Do not take two capsules at once to make up for a missed dose.
Simply take the next scheduled dose as usual.
What to Do If You Stop Taking Efracea
Keep taking Efracea as directed by your doctor.
Do not stop using it without medical advice, as stopping early may affect your treatment.
If you have any further questions about how to take this medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Who Should Not Use Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
When Not to Take Efracea
Allergies: Do not take Efracea if you are allergic to doxycycline, minocycline, other tetracycline antibiotics, or any of its ingredients.
Pregnancy: Avoid using Efracea from the fourth month of pregnancy, as it may harm the baby. If you become pregnant while taking Efracea, inform your doctor immediately.
Retinoid Use: Do not use Efracea if you are taking oral retinoids, which are used to treat severe acne and other skin conditions.
Achlorhydria or Upper Gut Surgery: If you have a condition where your stomach lacks acid (achlorhydria) or have had surgery on your upper digestive tract, Efracea may not be suitable for you.
Children Under 12: Efracea should not be given to children under 12, as it may lead to permanent tooth discoloration and issues with tooth development.
Warnings and Precautions
Not for Bacterial Infections: Efracea is designed for rosacea treatment and should not be used to treat bacterial infections.
Liver Disease: Speak with your doctor if you have any liver problems before taking this medication.
Yeast or Fungal Infections: If you are prone to yeast infections or currently have one, consult your doctor before starting Efracea.
Myasthenia Gravis: If you have this muscle disorder, inform your doctor before using Efracea.
Colitis: Let your doctor know if you suffer from colitis.
Esophageal Issues: If you have experienced esophageal irritation or ulcers, consult your doctor before taking Efracea.
Ocular Rosacea: If your rosacea affects your eyes, let your doctor know.
Sunlight Sensitivity: Efracea can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid excessive sun exposure and artificial UV light. Use sunscreen or protective clothing, and stop taking Efracea if you develop sunburn.
Sugar Intolerance: If you have been advised by your doctor that you have a sugar intolerance, check with them before taking Efracea.
Tooth Discoloration: This medication may cause permanent staining of teeth.
During Treatment with Efracea
Diarrhea: If you develop severe, prolonged, or bloody diarrhea during or after using Efracea, contact your doctor immediately, as this may be a sign of bowel inflammation (pseudomembranous colitis). You may need to stop taking the medication.
Correct Dosage: Follow the prescribed dose carefully. Taking more than recommended increases the risk of bacterial resistance.
Efracea with Food and Drink
Water: Always take Efracea with a full glass of water to lower the risk of throat or esophageal irritation.
Dairy Products: Avoid consuming milk or dairy products at the same time as Efracea, as they can interfere with its effectiveness. Wait at least 2-3 hours after taking Efracea before consuming dairy.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Pregnancy: Do not take Efracea during pregnancy, as it can lead to permanent tooth discoloration in the baby.
Breastfeeding: Long-term use of Efracea is not recommended while breastfeeding, as it may cause tooth discoloration and slow bone growth in infants.
Consultation: If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, speak to your doctor or pharmacist before using this medicine.
Driving and Using Machines
Effects on Driving: Efracea does not affect your ability to drive or operate machinery.
Additional Information
Contains Sucrose and Allura Red AC Aluminium Lake (E129): If you have a known sugar intolerance, speak to your doctor before taking this medication. The ink on the capsule contains Allura Red AC Aluminium Lake (E129), which may cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
If you have any concerns about using Efracea, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
What Are the Side Effects of Efracea 40mg MR Capsules?
Possible Side Effects of Efracea
Like all medications, Efracea may cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. If you notice any of the side effects listed below, speak to your doctor as soon as possible.
Serious Side Effects
Jarisch-Herxheimer Reaction: This may cause fever, chills, headache, muscle pain, and a skin rash. It is typically a temporary reaction when starting doxycycline treatment for infections like Lyme disease.
Common Side Effects(affecting 1 to 10 users in 100)
Inflammation of the nose and throat (nasopharyngitis)
Sinus inflammation (sinusitis)
Fungal infections
Anxiety
Sinus headaches
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Diarrhoea
Pain in the upper abdomen
Dry mouth
Back pain
General pain
Changes in blood test results (such as blood glucose or liver function levels)
Rare Side Effects(affecting 1 to 10 users in 10,000)
Allergic reactions throughout the body*
Changes in blood cell counts
Increased pressure in the brain (intracranial hypertension)
Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the heart (pericarditis)
Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and loss of appetite
Liver damage
Skin rashes or hives
Skin becoming highly sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity)
Increased blood urea levels
Very Rare Side Effects(affecting less than 1 user in 10,000)
Severe allergic reactions, including swelling of the eyes, lips, or tongue*
Yeast infections in the genital or anal area
Damage to red blood cells (haemolytic anaemia)
Brown-black microscopic staining of thyroid tissue with long-term use (does not affect thyroid function)
Increased brain pressure in infants
Inflammation of the tongue (glossitis)
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
Inflammation or ulcers in the oesophagus (oesophagitis)
Inflammation of the intestine (enteritis)
Skin inflammation causing peeling
Worsening of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
Nail separation from the nail bed after sun exposure (photo-onycholysis)
Side Effects of Unknown Frequency
These side effects have been reported, but their exact frequency is not known:
Increased pressure in the brain
Other allergic reactions*
Seek Immediate Medical Help If You Experience:
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Difficulty breathing
Hives, itchy skin, or itchy eyes
Rapid heartbeat (palpitations)
Feeling faint
These could be signs of a severe allergic reaction (hypersensitivity).
Reporting Side Effects
If you experience any side effects, including those not listed here, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also report side effects directly through the Yellow Card Scheme at yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk or by searching for "MHRA Yellow Card" in the Google Play or Apple App Store. Reporting side effects helps improve the safety of this medicine.
Do Efracea 40mg MR Capsules Interact with Other Medicines?
Drug Interactions
Efracea may interact with certain medications, which could affect how well it works or increase the risk of side effects. Always inform your doctor if you are taking, have recently taken, or plan to take any other medicines.
Retinoids
Do not take Efracea with isotretinoin, a medication used for severe acne. Combining these medicines may increase pressure in the brain, leading to serious complications.
Antacids and Supplements
Avoid taking Efracea with antacids, multivitamins, or supplements containing calcium, aluminium, magnesium, iron, or bismuth within 2 to 3 hours of your dose. These substances can interfere with absorption, making Efracea less effective.
Heartburn Treatments
Medications used to treat ulcers or acid reflux (such as proton pump inhibitors or H2 blockers) may reduce the effectiveness of Efracea. It is recommended to take these at least 2 hours after Efracea.
Blood Thinners
If you are using anticoagulants (blood thinners) like warfarin, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage to ensure your blood clotting levels remain stable.
Diabetes Treatments
Some diabetes medications may require dose adjustments when taken with Efracea. Your doctor will monitor your blood sugar levels to ensure the medication remains effective.
Other Antibiotics
Efracea may reduce the effectiveness of certain antibiotics, particularly penicillins. Speak to your doctor if you need to take another antibiotic while using Efracea.
Other Medications That May Affect Efracea
Certain medications, including barbiturates, rifampicin, carbamazepine, diphenylhydantoin, phenytoin, primidone, and cyclosporin, may speed up the breakdown of Efracea, shortening the time it remains active in your body.
Anesthetics
Using Efracea alongside the general anesthetic methoxyflurane may cause serious kidney damage. If you require surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking Efracea.
If you are unsure about any potential interactions, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking Efracea.
Efracea 40mg MR Capsules FAQs
What is Efracea?
Efracea capsules are a prescription medication designed to treat rosacea, specifically targeting the red bumps and pimples that appear on the face due to this condition. The active ingredient, doxycycline, belongs to the tetracycline antibiotic family and is formulated as a slow-release capsule. Efracea is prescribed for adult use and is only available with a prescription in the UK.
How does doxycycline in Efracea work?
Doxycycline is an antibiotic that typically fights bacterial infections in the skin, respiratory system, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), and even malaria. However, in Efracea, doxycycline is used at a low dose to reduce inflammation rather than act as a strong antibiotic. This makes it an effective long-term treatment option for managing rosacea symptoms without contributing to antibiotic resistance.
What is rosacea, and how does Efracea help?
Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that mainly affects the face, causing persistent redness, visible blood vessels, skin thickening, and small, raised spots known as papules. In some cases, pustules (pus-filled bumps) may also appear.
Efracea helps treat these symptoms by using a low dose of doxycycline that calms inflammation, reduces redness and irritation, and can even improve or eliminate symptoms over time.
How does Efracea treat rosacea?
Rosacea is a lifelong condition that often comes and goes in cycles of flare-ups and remission. Efracea works by reducing the underlying inflammation that causes rosacea symptoms such as:
Thickened skin
Visible blood vessels
Persistent redness and flushing
Small raised spots (papules) and pus-filled bumps (pustules)
Since Efracea contains a low dose of doxycycline, it controls inflammation without acting as a typical antibiotic, making it suitable for long-term use.
What causes rosacea, and what are its triggers?
The exact cause of rosacea is unknown, but several factors are thought to contribute, including:
Dilated blood vessels due to sun exposure
Tiny skin mites called Demodex folliculorum
Overactive peptides in the skin that trigger an immune response
Rosacea flare-ups can be triggered by:
Alcohol
Caffeine
Dairy products
Extreme weather conditions
Long-term sun exposure
Stress
Can Efracea be combined with other treatments?
Yes, Efracea can be used alongside other non-antibiotic rosacea treatments to enhance its effectiveness. Some common complementary treatments include:
Soolantra Cream – Targets rosacea-related skin mites and inflammation
Finacea Gel – Helps reduce redness and pimples
Dermalex Rosacea Treatment – A non-prescription option for calming redness and irritation
Mirvaso Gel – Works by temporarily reducing redness
These treatments work in different ways to help manage redness, inflammation, and breakouts, providing a more comprehensive approach to controlling rosacea.
