Minocin 100mg Capsules
It is used to treat or prevent bacterial infections.It is used to treat pimples (acne).It may be given to you for other reasons. Talk with the doctor.
Drug Class
Antibiotic
Pharmacologic Class
Tetracycline antibiotic; Protein synthesis inhibitor
Pregnancy Category
Category D
FDA Approved
Mar 1971
DEA Schedule
Not Controlled
Overview
What is this medicine?
Minocycline is an antibiotic used to treat various bacterial infections, including acne, respiratory tract infections, and urinary tract infections. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria.
How to Use This Medicine
Taking Your Medication Correctly
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Take your medication as directed, swallowing the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
Continue taking your medication even if your symptoms improve.
Take your medication at the same time every day to establish a routine.
You can take your medication with or without food. However, if it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help minimize this side effect.
Avoid taking products containing iron or antacids with aluminum, calcium, or magnesium at the same time as your medication. If you have questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Staying Hydrated
Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect your medication from heat and light to preserve its effectiveness.
When you no longer need your medication, dispose of it properly.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
To get the most benefit from your medication, follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Read all the information provided with your prescription and follow the instructions closely.
Take your medication as directed, swallowing the tablet whole with a full glass of water.
Continue taking your medication even if your symptoms improve.
Take your medication at the same time every day to establish a routine.
You can take your medication with or without food. However, if it causes stomach upset, take it with food to help minimize this side effect.
Avoid taking products containing iron or antacids with aluminum, calcium, or magnesium at the same time as your medication. If you have questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Staying Hydrated
Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids unless your doctor advises you to limit your fluid intake.
Storing and Disposing of Your Medication
Store your medication at room temperature in a dry place, away from the bathroom.
Protect your medication from heat and light to preserve its effectiveness.
When you no longer need your medication, dispose of it properly.
Missing a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Avoid excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen, as minocycline can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight (photosensitivity).
- Do not take antacids, iron supplements, or dairy products within 2-3 hours of taking minocycline, as they can interfere with its absorption.
- Take with a full glass of water to prevent esophageal irritation.
- If you experience dizziness or lightheadedness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
- If you are taking oral contraceptives, use an additional non-hormonal birth control method while on minocycline and for 7 days after, as it may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Generic Alternatives:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Standard Dose:
For infections: Initial 200 mg, then 100 mg every 12 hours. For acne: 50 mg once or twice daily.
Dose Range:
50 - 200 mg
Condition-Specific Dosing:
bacterialInfections:
Initial 200 mg, then 100 mg every 12 hours or 50 mg four times daily.
acneVulgaris:
50 mg once or twice daily, or 1 mg/kg/day in 1-2 divided doses (extended-release formulations may differ).
gonorrhea:
Initial 200 mg, then 100 mg every 12 hours for 4 days.
syphilis:
200 mg daily for 10-14 days.
Pediatric Dosing
Neonatal:
Not established (contraindicated in children <8 years due to tooth discoloration and bone growth effects).
Infant:
Not established (contraindicated in children <8 years).
Child:
Not recommended for children under 8 years of age. For children 8 years and older: Initial 4 mg/kg, then 2 mg/kg every 12 hours (max 200 mg initial, 100 mg q12h).
Adolescent:
Same as adult dosing for children 8 years and older.
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Mild:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor.
Moderate:
No specific adjustment needed, but monitor.
Severe:
Use with caution; consider dose reduction or increased dosing interval. Total daily dose should not exceed 200 mg.
Dialysis:
Minocycline is not significantly removed by hemodialysis. No supplemental dose needed after dialysis, but use with caution due to potential for increased systemic exposure.
Hepatic Impairment:
Mild:
Use with caution.
Moderate:
Use with caution; monitor liver function. Consider dose reduction.
Severe:
Use with caution; monitor liver function closely. Dose reduction may be necessary.
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Minocycline is a tetracycline antibiotic that inhibits bacterial protein synthesis by reversibly binding to the 30S ribosomal subunit, thereby preventing the attachment of aminoacyl-tRNA to the ribosomal acceptor site. This action prevents the addition of new amino acids to the growing peptide chain, leading to bacteriostasis.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Bioavailability:
90-100%
Tmax:
1-4 hours
FoodEffect:
Food and dairy products have minimal effect on absorption, but may slightly decrease the rate and extent of absorption. Can be taken with food to minimize GI upset.
Distribution:
Vd:
Not available (large volume of distribution, indicating extensive tissue penetration)
ProteinBinding:
70-75%
CnssPenetration:
Yes (achieves therapeutic concentrations in CSF, especially with inflamed meninges)
Elimination:
HalfLife:
11-22 hours (average 15 hours)
Clearance:
Not available
ExcretionRoute:
Primarily fecal (biliary excretion) and renal (glomerular filtration)
Unchanged:
Approximately 10-30% excreted unchanged in urine.
Pharmacodynamics
OnsetOfAction:
Rapid (antibacterial effect begins shortly after achieving therapeutic concentrations)
PeakEffect:
Correlates with Tmax (1-4 hours)
DurationOfAction:
Due to its long half-life, allows for once or twice daily dosing.
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
Serious Side Effects: Seek Medical Help Immediately
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem), such as:
+ Severe stomach pain
+ Severe back pain
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of kidney problems, such as:
+ Inability to pass urine
+ Changes in urine output
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of lupus, such as:
+ Rash on the cheeks or other body parts
+ Easy sunburn
+ Muscle or joint pain
+ Chest pain or shortness of breath
+ Swelling in the arms or legs
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Changes in hearing
Joint pain or swelling
Muscle pain or weakness
Ringing in the ears
Seizures
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Abnormal heartbeat
Swelling
Changes in nail, skin, eye, or gum color
Mouth irritation or sores
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Redness or white patches in the mouth or throat
Rectal or genital irritation
Vaginal itching or discharge
Antibiotic-Related Side Effects
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, in rare cases, a severe form of diarrhea called C. diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD) may occur. This condition can lead to a life-threatening bowel problem. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, or loose, watery, or bloody stools, contact your doctor immediately. Do not treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Other Serious Side Effects
Liver problems: Contact your doctor right away if you notice dark urine, tiredness, decreased appetite, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
Raised pressure in the brain: This condition may cause headaches or eyesight problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Thyroid cancer: Long-term use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer. If you notice lasting hoarseness, a neck mass, or trouble breathing or swallowing, contact your doctor right away.
Severe skin reactions: This medication may cause life-threatening skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious conditions. If you experience red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands, seek medical help immediately.
Common Side Effects
Most people do not experience serious side effects, but some may occur. If you notice any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Decreased appetite
Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, or weakness
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions about side effects or want to report a side effect, contact your doctor or call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Although rare, some people may experience severe and potentially life-threatening side effects while taking this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention right away:
Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
+ Rash
+ Hives
+ Itching
+ Red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin with or without fever
+ Wheezing
+ Tightness in the chest or throat
+ Trouble breathing, swallowing, or talking
+ Unusual hoarseness
+ Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
Signs of pancreatitis (pancreas problem), such as:
+ Severe stomach pain
+ Severe back pain
+ Severe upset stomach or vomiting
Signs of kidney problems, such as:
+ Inability to pass urine
+ Changes in urine output
+ Blood in the urine
+ Sudden weight gain
Signs of lupus, such as:
+ Rash on the cheeks or other body parts
+ Easy sunburn
+ Muscle or joint pain
+ Chest pain or shortness of breath
+ Swelling in the arms or legs
Fever, chills, or sore throat
Unexplained bruising or bleeding
Feeling extremely tired or weak
Changes in hearing
Joint pain or swelling
Muscle pain or weakness
Ringing in the ears
Seizures
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Abnormal heartbeat
Swelling
Changes in nail, skin, eye, or gum color
Mouth irritation or sores
Burning, numbness, or tingling sensations
Redness or white patches in the mouth or throat
Rectal or genital irritation
Vaginal itching or discharge
Antibiotic-Related Side Effects
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, in rare cases, a severe form of diarrhea called C. diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD) may occur. This condition can lead to a life-threatening bowel problem. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, or loose, watery, or bloody stools, contact your doctor immediately. Do not treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor first.
Other Serious Side Effects
Liver problems: Contact your doctor right away if you notice dark urine, tiredness, decreased appetite, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
Raised pressure in the brain: This condition may cause headaches or eyesight problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or loss of vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Thyroid cancer: Long-term use of this medication has been associated with an increased risk of thyroid cancer. If you notice lasting hoarseness, a neck mass, or trouble breathing or swallowing, contact your doctor right away.
Severe skin reactions: This medication may cause life-threatening skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious conditions. If you experience red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in your mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands, seek medical help immediately.
Common Side Effects
Most people do not experience serious side effects, but some may occur. If you notice any of the following side effects, contact your doctor or seek medical attention if they bother you or do not go away:
Diarrhea
Upset stomach or vomiting
Decreased appetite
Dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, or weakness
Reporting Side Effects
If you have questions about side effects or want to report a side effect, contact your doctor or call the FDA at 1-800-332-1088. You can also report side effects online at https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe headache or blurred vision (signs of pseudotumor cerebri)
- Severe diarrhea (especially if bloody or watery, may indicate C. difficile infection)
- Yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe stomach pain (signs of liver problems)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling
- Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness
- Blue-gray discoloration of skin, nails, or gums (with long-term use)
- Signs of allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)
Before Using This Medicine
Before Taking This Medication: Important Information to Share with Your Doctor
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Acitretin, Isotretinoin, or a Penicillin.
* If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, as you may need to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you have. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to ensure it is safe for you to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor. It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health problems.
It is essential to inform your doctor about the following:
Any allergies you have, including allergies to this medication, its components, or other substances, such as foods or drugs. Be sure to describe the symptoms you experienced.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Acitretin, Isotretinoin, or a Penicillin.
* If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, as you may need to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to disclose all your medications, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, natural products, and vitamins, as well as any health problems you have. Your doctor and pharmacist need this information to ensure it is safe for you to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions.
Do not start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor. It is vital to verify that it is safe to take this medication with all your other medications and health problems.
Precautions & Cautions
It is essential to inform all your healthcare providers, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and dentists, that you are taking this medication. Before engaging in activities that require alertness, such as driving, wait until you understand how this drug affects you. Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor, to monitor your condition. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug. Do not exceed the prescribed duration of treatment, as this may increase the risk of a secondary infection.
You may be more susceptible to sunburn while taking this medication, so exercise caution when exposed to sunlight. If you experience unusual sunburn, inform your doctor promptly.
Generally, this medication is not recommended for children under 8 years old. However, in some cases, your doctor may prescribe it for younger children. It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. One possible side effect in children under 8 is a permanent change in tooth color, resulting in a yellow-gray-brown discoloration. If this occurs, the change will be irreversible. Your doctor should be consulted regarding this potential side effect.
Adults may also experience tooth discoloration, but this typically reverses after the medication is discontinued and a dental cleaning is performed. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about tooth discoloration.
If you are using birth control pills or other hormone-based contraception, you should be aware that this medication may reduce their effectiveness. To prevent pregnancy, consider using an additional form of birth control, such as condoms, while taking this drug.
It is critical to avoid taking this medication during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
This medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all your healthcare providers and laboratory personnel that you are taking this drug. Do not exceed the prescribed duration of treatment, as this may increase the risk of a secondary infection.
You may be more susceptible to sunburn while taking this medication, so exercise caution when exposed to sunlight. If you experience unusual sunburn, inform your doctor promptly.
Generally, this medication is not recommended for children under 8 years old. However, in some cases, your doctor may prescribe it for younger children. It is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor. One possible side effect in children under 8 is a permanent change in tooth color, resulting in a yellow-gray-brown discoloration. If this occurs, the change will be irreversible. Your doctor should be consulted regarding this potential side effect.
Adults may also experience tooth discoloration, but this typically reverses after the medication is discontinued and a dental cleaning is performed. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about tooth discoloration.
If you are using birth control pills or other hormone-based contraception, you should be aware that this medication may reduce their effectiveness. To prevent pregnancy, consider using an additional form of birth control, such as condoms, while taking this drug.
It is critical to avoid taking this medication during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. If you become pregnant or suspect you are pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
What to Do:
Seek immediate medical attention or call a poison control center (e.g., 1-800-222-1222). Treatment is supportive; gastric lavage may be indicated if ingestion is recent.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Isotretinoin (increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri)
- Acitretin (increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri)
Major Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Iron preparations (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Oral contraceptives (decreased efficacy of oral contraceptives, leading to breakthrough bleeding or unintended pregnancy)
- Warfarin (potentiates anticoagulant effect, increased INR)
- Penicillins (may interfere with the bactericidal action of penicillin)
Moderate Interactions
- Ergot alkaloids (theoretical increased risk of ergotism)
- Methotrexate (increased risk of methotrexate toxicity)
- Typhoid vaccine, live (decreased therapeutic effect of vaccine)
Minor Interactions
- Bismuth subsalicylate (may decrease minocycline absorption)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Liver function tests (LFTs)
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing hepatic impairment, especially for prolonged therapy.
Timing: Prior to initiating long-term therapy.
Renal function tests (e.g., serum creatinine, BUN)
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing renal impairment, especially for prolonged therapy.
Timing: Prior to initiating long-term therapy.
Routine Monitoring
Signs and symptoms of pseudotumor cerebri (e.g., headache, blurred vision, papilledema)
Frequency: Periodically, especially with prolonged use or high doses.
Target: Absence of symptoms.
Action Threshold: Discontinue drug and refer for neurological evaluation if symptoms occur.
Skin and mucous membrane discoloration
Frequency: Periodically with long-term use.
Target: Absence of blue-gray discoloration.
Action Threshold: Consider discontinuation if significant discoloration develops.
Photosensitivity reactions
Frequency: During therapy, especially with sun exposure.
Target: Absence of severe sunburn-like reactions.
Action Threshold: Advise sun protection; discontinue if severe reaction occurs.
Gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea)
Frequency: During therapy.
Target: Tolerable GI symptoms.
Action Threshold: Consider dose adjustment or discontinuation if severe or persistent.
Superinfection (e.g., oral candidiasis, C. difficile-associated diarrhea)
Frequency: During and after therapy.
Target: Absence of new infections.
Action Threshold: Treat appropriately; discontinue minocycline if severe.
Symptom Monitoring
- Headache
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness/vertigo
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Photosensitivity (severe sunburn)
- Skin discoloration (blue-gray)
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Unusual bleeding or bruising
- Joint pain or swelling
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Minocycline is classified as Pregnancy Category D. It should not be used during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Tetracyclines can cause permanent discoloration of teeth (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
First Trimester:
Potential for skeletal and dental abnormalities.
Second Trimester:
Significant risk of permanent tooth discoloration (enamel hypoplasia) and inhibition of bone growth.
Third Trimester:
Significant risk of permanent tooth discoloration (enamel hypoplasia) and inhibition of bone growth.
Lactation
Minocycline is excreted into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the nursing infant, including tooth discoloration and inhibition of bone growth, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or to discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother. The American Academy of Pediatrics considers tetracyclines to be compatible with breastfeeding with caution.
Infant Risk:
L3 (Moderately safe; potential for tooth discoloration, bone growth inhibition, and candidiasis in the infant. Monitor infant for diarrhea and thrush.)
Pediatric Use
Minocycline is generally contraindicated in children under 8 years of age due to the risk of permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth. For children 8 years and older, dosing is weight-based, similar to adults.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment is generally required for elderly patients, but caution should be exercised due to the higher likelihood of decreased renal or hepatic function. Monitor renal and hepatic function, and be aware of potential for increased sensitivity to adverse effects (e.g., dizziness).
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Minocycline is known for causing vestibular side effects (dizziness, vertigo, ataxia), especially at higher doses or in women. These effects are usually reversible upon discontinuation.
- Long-term use of minocycline can lead to blue-gray skin, nail, and mucous membrane discoloration, which may be permanent.
- Unlike some other tetracyclines, minocycline's absorption is less affected by food and dairy products, making it more convenient for patients.
- It has good tissue penetration, including into the skin (making it effective for acne) and CNS.
- Patients should be advised to take minocycline with a full glass of water to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration.
Alternative Therapies
- Doxycycline (another tetracycline, often used for similar indications)
- Tetracycline (older tetracycline, more GI side effects, more food interactions)
- Erythromycin (macrolide antibiotic, for acne or susceptible infections)
- Clindamycin (lincosamide antibiotic, for acne or susceptible infections)
- Azithromycin (macrolide antibiotic)
- Topical retinoids (for acne)
- Benzoyl peroxide (for acne)
Cost & Coverage
Average Cost:
Varies widely, typically $30-$200+ per 30 capsules (100mg)
Generic Available:
Yes
Insurance Coverage:
Tier 1 or 2 (generic), Tier 3 or 4 (brand)
General Drug Facts
If your symptoms or health condition do not improve or worsen over time, it is essential to contact your doctor for further evaluation and guidance. To ensure your safety and the effectiveness of your treatment, never share your medication with others or take someone else's medication. Some medications may come with an additional patient information leaflet, so it is a good idea to consult with your pharmacist to see if this applies to your prescription. If you have any questions or concerns about your medication, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or other healthcare provider for clarification and guidance. In the event of a suspected overdose, immediately call your local poison control center or seek emergency medical attention. When seeking help, be prepared to provide detailed information about the overdose, including the name of the medication taken, the amount consumed, and the time it occurred.