Drug Notes

Minocycline, extended release (By mouth)

Minocycline (min-oh-SYE-kleen)

Treats acne. This medicine is a tetracycline antibiotic.

Brand Name(s):

Solodyn

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Long Acting Capsule, Long Acting Tablet

• Your doctor will tell you how much medicine to use. Do not use more than directed.
• Take this medicine with food if it irritates your throat or esophagus.
• Swallow the extended-release capsule or tablet whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose :Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some foods and medicines can affect how minocycline works. Tell your doctor if you are using isotretinoin, a penicillin antibiotic, or a blood thinner (such as warfarin). Tell your doctor if you also take iron supplements or antacids that contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• This medicine may cause birth defects if either partner is using it during conception or pregnancy. Tell your doctor right away if you or your partner becomes pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney disease, liver disease, or vision problems.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Severe diarrhea (may occur up to 2 months after you stop taking this medicine)
  • Liver problems
  • Benign intracranial hypertension (increased pressure in the head)
  • Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus-like syndrome
  • Discoloration of your skin, nails, eyes, teeth, or gums
• Birth control pills may not work as well while you are using this medicine. Use an additional form of birth control with your pills.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• This medicine can cause diarrhea. Call your doctor if the diarrhea becomes severe, does not stop, or is bloody. Do not take any medicine to stop diarrhea until you have talked to your doctor. Diarrhea can occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine. It may occur 2 months or more after you stop taking this medicine.
• This medicine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Wear sunscreen. Do not use sunlamps or tanning beds.
• Your doctor will check your progress and the effects of this medicine at regular visits. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Blistering, peeling, or red skin rash
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Diarrhea that may contain blood, stomach cramps
• Fever, joint pain, rash, or unusual weakness
• Severe headache, dizziness, or vision changes
• Swollen or tender lymph glands in your neck, armpit, or groin

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Discoloration of your skin, nails, teeth, or gums

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088

Last Updated: 1/27/2017