Abstract: The present invention is a method of administering an antibiotic of the tetracycline family or a non-antibacterial tetracycline compound in a daily dosage over an extended period of time in order to reduce the effects of aging on a patient's skin, including the appearance of wrinkles; to reduce the systemic effects of aging on the patient, including the incidence of hair loss in men, where such systemic effects appeared to be replaced by a general feeling of vigor, increased energy levels and a more youthful physique; to reduce the effects of sun damage on a patient's skin; to reduce the onset of menopause on female patients; to reduce the incidence of myocardial infarction; to reduce the physiological effects of hypertension; to reduce the incidence stroke, and to reduce the high levels of cholesterol in the patient's bloodstream.