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Minocycline

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  • Minocycline is used to treat various types of bacterial infections by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria.
  • Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of minocycline.
  • The most common sides are nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and headache. These may improve after a few days once your body adjusts to the new medicine.

About minocycline

Type of medicine Antibiotic
Used for Bacterial infections
Also called Aknemin; Blemix; Minocin; Minocin 50; Minocin MR
Available as Capsule and tablet

Minocycline is used to treat various types of bacterial infections by killing or stopping the growth of the bacteria. It is particularly useful for treating skin conditions, such as acne.

Before taking minocycline

Before taking minocycline make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you suffer from liver and kidney problems
  • If you suffer from Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (a blood disorder) or myasthenia gravis (a muscle disorder)
  • If you are taking anticoagulants e.g. warfarin

How to take minocycline

  • Swallow minocycline capsules and tablets whole (not crushed or chewed), with plenty of water, while sitting or standing.
  • Do not take any indigestion remedies, iron or zinc supplements at the same time as this medicine. Take them at least two hours before or two hours after a dose of minocycline.
  • It is important not to lie down for at least thirty minutes after taking minocycline capsules, so that the capsule can move as swiftly as possible into the stomach.
  • Try to take this medicine at regular intervals, as directed by your doctor, to keep a steady level of minocycline in your body.
  • Try not to miss any doses. If you do miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate.
  • If you are taking minocycline to treat acne it is quite normal to continue treatment for several months.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Even if your condition has improved it is important to complete the prescribed course of minocycline. If you stop taking this medicine too soon your infection is likely to return and could be more difficult to treat.
  • Make sure that you keep your appointments with your doctor so that your progress can be checked. This is most important if you are taking minocycline for a prolonged period of time.
  • Important: Oral contraceptives may be less effective while you are taking minocycline and unplanned pregnancies have occurred. In addition to taking the contraceptive pill, use a barrier method of contraception (e.g. condoms) while you are taking minocycline and for at least seven days after your course of minocycline has finished. If these seven days run into a 'pill-free' week, start taking the next packet of contraceptives without leaving a break. If you are taking the type of contraceptive pill that is taken every day or if you need any further advice, speak to your doctor or pharmacist.

Can minocycline cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Nausea (feeling sick) or vomiting (being sick) Drink plenty of liquid. Stick to simple foods such as dry toast. If vomiting continues to be a problem speak to your doctor.
Diarrhoea Drink plenty of water to replace lost fluids. If diarrhoea continues to be a problem speak to your pharmacist or doctor.
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable pain-killer. If headache continues speak with your doctor.
Heartburn Ask your pharmacist. Remember not to take indigestion remedies at the same time of day as your minocycline.
Difficulty swallowing, skin reactions, problems with eyesight, sore or painful tongue or mouth, loss of appetite, dizziness, loss of balance, ringing in the ears, discolouration of tears and sweat, soreness and itching of the rectal or genital area. Consult your doctor about this.

How to store minocycline

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines


  • Keep all medicines out of the sight and reach of children.
  • Make sure that the person prescribing this medicine knows about any other medicines that you are taking. This includes medicines you buy and herbal and homeopathic medicines.
  • If you buy any medicines check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • Before taking this medicine tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction after taking any medicine.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you, if possible, even if it is empty.
  • If you are having any treatment like an operation or dental treatment tell the person carrying out the treatment which medicines you are taking.
  • Always read the printed information leaflet that comes with your medicine.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
© EMIS 2006 DocID:
1425
DocRef:
dils2370
Last Updated:
24 Oct 2006
Date of Next Review:
23 Oct 2008
Version:
22

The authors and editors of this article are employed to create accurate and up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. They are free from any commercial conflicts of interest. Find out more about updating.

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