What is Minocin (Minocycline) prescribed for?

This medication is used to a wide variety of infections. It may also be used alongside other medications to treat severe acne. Acne is when greasy secretions from the skins oil glands start to plug pores, which can result in black heads and pimples.

This medication belongs to a class of drug known as tetracycline antibiotics. Overall this medication works by putting a stop to the growth of the bacteria.

Read up on anything your doctor may have given you through a pamphlet and listen to any information you doctor have give you in regards to this medication and all its benefits.

This medication is best taken on an empty stomach. It is to be taken by mouth, usually every 12 hours, and at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Take this medication with a full glass of water. However if you do gain a upset stomach you may ask if you can begin to take this medication with food or milk. But keep in mind it may not work as well if you take it with any food or a glass of milk.

Make sure to take this medication 2 to 3 hours before or after taking anything which contains aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, or zinc.  Any product with these ingredients will not bind properly with minocycline and will prevent your body from absorbing the medication.

Before taking this medication, it is best to advise your doctor if you are allergic to Minocycline; or to other tetracyclines (such as doxycycline); or to any other medications or allergies in general.

Before taking this medication, it is for the best to inform you doctor of you Medical history. Especially of; kidney problems, liver problems, trouble swallowing, esophagus problems (such as hiatal hernia or reflux/heartburn).

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

Minocycline may cause live bacterial vaccines (such as typhoid vaccine) to not work as well. Do not have any immunizations/vaccinations while using this medication unless your doctor tells you to.

Some of these side effects may occur when taking this medication; they are as follows; Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, lightheadedness, dizziness, or a feeling of spinning may occur. However if any of these effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor right away.

Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: painful/difficult swallowing, hearing changes (such as ringing in the ears, decreased hearing), joint stiffness/pain/swelling, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine, pink urine), signs of liver problems (such as loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), yellow-gray-brown tooth discoloration, blue-gray skin/tongue/lips/gums.

Minocycline may rarely cause a serious increase in pressure inside the skull (intracranial hypertension-IH). The risk of this side effect is greater for women of childbearing age who are overweight or who have had IH in the past. If IH develops, it usually goes away after minocycline is stopped; however, there is a chance of permanent vision loss or blindness. Get medical help right away if you have: severe/lasting headache, vision changes (such as blurred/double vision, decreased vision, sudden blindness), nausea/vomiting that doesn't stop.

This medication may rarely cause a severe intestinal condition (Clostridium difficile-associated diarrhea) due to a type of resistant bacteria. This condition may occur during treatment or weeks to months after treatment has stopped. Tell your doctor right away if you develop: diarrhea that doesn't stop, abdominal or stomach pain/cramping, blood/mucus in your stool.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

There may be a relapse in symptoms as well as side effects. You should speak your doctor before stop taking this medication.

 What is the best dosage to take?

The diagnosis with your doctor will be able to determine the best dosage for your treatment. Work with your doctor closely for dosage and dosing schedules.

 What happens if I miss a dose?

You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping in dose.

 What is the best way to store this medication?

This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. Do not throw away this medication in the wastebasket. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist for help in safely disposing of this medication.