Can I go tanning if I take tetracycline?

[sarahsitus23]

I have been taking tetracycline for close to 2 months to clear up my acne, and I know it says not to avoid sunlight and tanning beds and stuff, but my prom is coming up and I wanted to try it before then.
I was wondering what happens if I do go tanning while taking tetracycline, or if anyone has any suggestions on what to do so I don't get fried or something.

Any answers are greatly appreciated!

[miss_jen_b]

You should talk to the doctor. Tetracycline is photosensitive this means that it makes you really sensitive to the sunlight.

http://www.drugs.com/tetracycline.html
http://health.yahoo.com/urinary-medications/tetracycline/healthwise--d00041a1.html

If you do start tanning, you might break out in a rash or burn.

You should really consider a spray tan. Seriously, they are amazing, they're not streaky and they look like a real tan.

- Depending on your reasons for tetracycline, you may want to switch to another antibiotic. Tetracycline is commonly perscribed for those with acne, there are other treatments available that don't have these side effects.

[psst]

Yes, it makes your skin more apt to burn. Be very careful, start tanning only 4 minutes at first. Do the 4 minutes for a week but only 2-3 times then increase the time to 6 minutes the next week, then 8 minutes....get the idea? Be careful in the tanner and have fun at the dance!!! I'm sure you will be fabulous!