Minocycline
2 medicines
Minocycline is a tetracycline antibiotic used for acne and bacterial infections. Long-term use can cause drug-induced lupus and blue-grey skin pigmentation, and it must be avoided in pregnancy and in children under 8, since it permanently discolors developing teeth.
Key facts
- Minocycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that stops bacteria from making the proteins they need to grow, used mainly for moderate to severe acne and various bacterial infections.
- It's usually taken once or twice daily, with or without food, for weeks to months depending on the condition.
- Minocycline must be avoided in pregnancy and in children under 8, because it binds to calcium in developing teeth and bone and causes permanent tooth discoloration. Long courses also carry a risk of drug-induced lupus and blue-grey skin pigmentation.
- Seek urgent care for joint pain with fever or a new rash, or for a severe headache with vision changes.
What minocycline treats
Minocycline treats moderate to severe acne, and bacterial infections such as respiratory tract infections, urinary tract infections and certain sexually transmitted infections. It's also used for rosacea-related skin inflammation and some tick-borne infections.
How minocycline works
Minocycline enters bacterial cells and binds to their ribosomes, blocking the machinery bacteria use to build proteins. Without new proteins, bacteria cannot grow or multiply, letting your immune system clear the infection.
Before you take it
- Do not take minocycline if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or treating a child under 8, since it discolors developing teeth and can affect bone growth.
- Avoid antacids, and calcium, iron or zinc supplements within 2 hours of a dose; they bind to minocycline and reduce how much your body absorbs.
- Tell your prescriber about liver disease or a history of lupus, since minocycline can trigger a lupus-like reaction with long-term use.
- Use sun protection; minocycline increases skin sensitivity to sunlight and sunburn risk.
Side effects
Common effects include nausea, dizziness, and sun sensitivity.
Stop and seek urgent medical care for:
- Joint pain, fever, or a new rash after weeks or months of use, which can signal drug-induced lupus.
- Blue-grey discoloration of the skin, gums or nails.
- A severe headache with blurred or double vision, which can signal raised pressure in the brain.
- Severe skin blistering or peeling.
Safety essentials
- Long-term minocycline use can cause drug-induced lupus, marked by joint pain, fever and rash, and permanent blue-grey skin pigmentation; report these symptoms promptly so treatment can be reviewed.
- Never use minocycline during pregnancy or in children under 8; it permanently discolors developing teeth and can affect bone growth.
- Take it with plenty of water and stay upright for 30 minutes afterward, since tetracyclines can irritate the esophagus.
This page is educational and does not replace advice from a doctor or pharmacist who knows your health history.