Tetracycline

• Tetracycline is a strong oral antibiotic prescribed to treat inflamed acne that shows up in the form of papules and pustules. You will likely start with a dose of 500 to 1000 milligrams each day, according to AcneNet, with a lower dose regimen later prescribed as a form of maintenance. Its best-known side effect is the possibility of teeth staining, and it is strong contraindicated for pregnant and nursing women. Similar drugs, doxycycline and minocycline, are often prescribed as well for acne treatment.
  
  

Erythromycin

• Erythromycin is another type of oral antibiotic that is a broad-spectrum treatment, which means it is effective in killing a wide range of bacteria. People who take this drug often complain of digestive upset for the treatment's duration, according to AcneNet. This drug is usually prescribed in cases of severe acne that may be resistant to more targeted forms of treatment.
  
  

Clindamycin

• Clindamycin is a topical antibiotic that's classified as semi-synthetic, reports AcneNet. It works well in treating acne and reducing active inflammation, and is often recommended to avoid the negative side effects of oral antibiotics that go through your entire system. Used correctly---that means following the prescription even after your skin has cleared---you should not experience bacterial resistance, though dry skin and redness are common side effects.
  
  

Sodium Sulfacetamide

• Another topical antibiotic for is sodium sulfacetamide, which kills the bacteria that causes acne, specifically P. acnes. It helps reduce inflammation and unclog your pores. It contains sulfur, which while smelly and rough-textured, is also known to have skin-soothing properties that work as an added bonus for clearing your skin.
  
  

Topical Erythromycin

• Erythromycin is also available in a topical form and acts as a broad-spectrum treatment to be used directly on your face. It's an anti-inflammatory drug, and helps to reduce redness and irritation while killing bacteria. Dryness of the skin and mild irritation may occur, according to AcneNet, though using an oil-free moisturizer can usually control these side effects.