GENERIC NAME: MINOCYCLINE - ORAL (min-oh-SYE-kleen)
BRAND NAME(S): Dynacin, Minocin
Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
USES: Minocycline is an antibiotic used to treat a wide variety of bacterial infections including acne.
HOW TO USE: This medication may be taken with food or on an empty stomach. Take each dose by mouth with a full glass (8 oz or 240 ml) of water unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for 30 minutes after taking this drug. Take this medication 2-3 hours before or after taking any medications containing magnesium, aluminum, or calcium. Some examples include quinapril, certain forms of didanosine (e.g. chewable/dispersible buffered tablets or pediatric oral solution), vitamins/minerals, and antacids. Sucralfate, bismuth subsalicylate, iron, and zinc are also included. These medications bind with minocycline preventing its full absorption. Antibiotics work best when the amount of medicine in your body is kept at a constant level. Do this by taking the medication at evenly spaced intervals throughout the day and night. Continue to take this medication until the full prescribed amount is finished even if symptoms disappear after a few days. Stopping the medication too early may allow bacteria to continue to grow resulting in a relapse of the infection.
SIDE EFFECTS: This medication may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, dizziness, unsteadiness, drowsiness, headache or vomiting. If these symptoms persist or worsen, notify your doctor. Minocycline increases sensitivity to sunlight. Avoid prolonged sun exposure. Wear protective clothing and use a sunscreen if needed. Very unlikely but report: fever, yellowing of the eyes or skin, stomach pain, sore throat, vision changes, mental changes. In those cases where this drug must be used for extended periods, blue-gray skin discoloration may occur. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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