The invention relates to a topical suspension formulation that includes a tetracycline, a liq. medium and a polymeric gelling agent.  The tetracycline may be in the form of its salts, hydrates, or polymorphs and is in a suspended form within the formulation.  The liq. medium is selected such that it does not completely dissolve or minimally dissolves the tetracycline.  The gelling agent is a polymeric hydrocarbon gelling agent.  Preferably, the tetracycline has a particle size of ≤20 μ.  A formulation contained minocycline free base (cryst.) 1, mineral oil 30, and Versagel-​M750 69​%.