Minolira 105mg Tablets
Overview
What is this medicine?
How to Use This Medicine
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 tablets or capsules whole. Do not chew or crush them.
Drink a full glass of water with each dose.
If you have trouble swallowing the medication, check with your doctor to see if you can break the tablet in half. However, do not break the tablet unless your doctor or pharmacist says it is okay to do so.
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. If it upsets your stomach, try taking it with food.
However, do not take your medication with products that contain iron or antacids that have aluminum, calcium, or magnesium. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about other medications or supplements you are taking.
Drink plenty of non-caffeinated fluids throughout the day, 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.
When you no longer need your medication, dispose of it properly.
What to Do If You Miss a Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule.
Do not take two doses at the same time or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.
Lifestyle & Tips
- Take the tablet with a full glass of water to prevent irritation of the esophagus.
- Do not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophageal irritation.
- Avoid taking antacids, iron supplements, or dairy products within 2-3 hours before or after taking Minolira, as they can interfere with absorption.
- Protect your skin from the sun (wear protective clothing, use sunscreen) as this medication can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight.
- This medication may cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
- If you are taking oral contraceptives, use an additional non-hormonal birth control method while on minocycline, as it may reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Available Forms & Alternatives
Available Strengths:
Dosing & Administration
Adult Dosing
Condition-Specific Dosing:
Pediatric Dosing
Dose Adjustments
Renal Impairment:
Hepatic Impairment:
Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption:
Distribution:
Elimination:
Pharmacodynamics
Safety & Warnings
Side Effects
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 immediately:
Signs of an allergic reaction: 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, or swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Pancreatitis (pancreas problem): severe stomach pain, severe back pain, or severe upset stomach or vomiting.
Kidney problems: inability to pass urine, changes in urine output, blood in the urine, or significant weight gain.
Lupus-like symptoms: rash on the cheeks or other body parts, easy sunburn, muscle or joint pain, chest pain or shortness of breath, or swelling in the arms or legs.
Fever, chills, or sore throat.
Unexplained bruising or bleeding, or 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.
Darkening of nail, skin, eye, scar, tooth, or gum color.
Mouth irritation or mouth 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 Diarrhea
Diarrhea is a common side effect of antibiotics. However, a severe form called C. diff-associated diarrhea (CDAD) can occur, which may lead to life-threatening bowel problems. If you experience stomach pain, cramps, or loose, watery, or bloody stools, contact your doctor immediately. Do not treat diarrhea without consulting your doctor.
Liver Problems
Liver problems, including life-threatening cases, have been reported with this medication. If you notice any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor right away: dark urine, tiredness, decreased appetite, upset stomach or stomach pain, light-colored stools, vomiting, or yellow skin or eyes.
Raised Brain Pressure
Raised pressure in the brain has been reported with this medication, which may lead to loss of eyesight. If you experience headaches or eyesight problems, such as blurred vision, double vision, or loss of eyesight, contact your doctor immediately.
Thyroid Cancer
Cases of thyroid cancer have been reported with long-term use of this medication. If you notice lasting hoarseness, a neck mass, or trouble breathing or swallowing, contact your doctor right away.
Severe Skin Reactions
Severe skin reactions, including Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS), toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN), and other serious reactions, can occur with this medication. These reactions can be life-threatening and may affect other organs. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical help immediately: red, swollen, blistered, or peeling skin; red or irritated eyes; sores in the mouth, throat, nose, eyes, genitals, or skin; fever; chills; body aches; shortness of breath; or swollen glands.
Other Side Effects
Most people do not experience severe side effects, and many have only minor or no side effects at all. However, if you notice any of the following side effects or any other unusual symptoms, contact your doctor or seek medical attention:
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 any side effects, contact your doctor or the FDA at 1-800-332-1088 or https://www.fda.gov/medwatch.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention If You Experience:
- Severe headache, especially with blurred vision or double vision (signs of increased pressure in the brain)
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or pale stools (signs of liver problems)
- Severe skin rash, blistering, or peeling (signs of serious skin reactions)
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, persistent sore throat, or fever (signs of blood problems)
- Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
- Severe stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Joint pain, swelling, or stiffness (signs of drug-induced lupus-like syndrome)
Before Using This Medicine
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. Describe the allergic reaction you experienced, including the symptoms that occurred.
If you are currently taking any of the following medications: Acitretin, Isotretinoin, or a Penicillin.
If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant.
If you are trying to conceive or father a child.
* If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. You may need to avoid breastfeeding while taking this medication.
This list is not exhaustive, and it is crucial to discuss all your medications (prescription, over-the-counter, natural products, and vitamins) and health conditions with your doctor and pharmacist. They will help determine if it is safe to take this medication with your other medications and health conditions. Never start, stop, or change the dose of any medication without first consulting your doctor.
Precautions & Cautions
Regular blood tests will be necessary, as directed by your doctor. Be sure to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor. Additionally, this medication may interfere with certain laboratory tests, so it is crucial to notify all 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. When taking this medication, be cautious when exposed to sunlight, as it may increase your susceptibility to sunburn. If you experience unusual sunburn, inform your doctor promptly.
In children under 8 years old, this medication may cause permanent tooth discoloration, resulting in a yellow-gray-brown color. If this occurs, the discoloration will be irreversible. Discuss this risk with your doctor. This medication is not approved for use in children under 12 years old, so consult with your doctor to determine the best course of treatment.
Children under 8 years old should not be given this medication. Although rare, tooth discoloration has also been reported in adults, which typically resolves after discontinuing the medication and undergoing dental cleaning. Consult your doctor if you have concerns.
When taking this medication, the effectiveness of birth control pills and other hormone-based contraceptives may be reduced. To prevent pregnancy, use an additional form of birth control, such as a condom, in conjunction with your regular birth control method.
If you are pregnant or become pregnant while taking this medication, immediately contact your doctor, as it may pose a risk to the unborn baby.
Overdose Information
Overdose Symptoms:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
What to Do:
In case of overdose, seek immediate medical attention or call a Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222). Treatment is generally supportive and symptomatic.
Drug Interactions
Contraindicated Interactions
- Isotretinoin (increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri)
Major Interactions
- Oral Anticoagulants (e.g., Warfarin - may potentiate anticoagulant effect)
- Penicillins (may interfere with bactericidal action of penicillin)
- Oral Contraceptives (may reduce efficacy of oral contraceptives, leading to breakthrough bleeding or pregnancy)
- Ergot Alkaloids (theoretical increased risk of ergotism, though less documented for minocycline)
- Methotrexate (may increase methotrexate toxicity)
Moderate Interactions
- Antacids containing aluminum, calcium, or magnesium (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Iron preparations (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Bismuth subsalicylate (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Cholestyramine (decreased minocycline absorption)
- Digoxin (may increase digoxin levels in some patients)
Minor Interactions
- Zinc supplements (potential for reduced minocycline absorption)
Monitoring
Baseline Monitoring
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing hepatic impairment, especially for long-term therapy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, if clinically indicated.
Rationale: To establish baseline and identify pre-existing renal impairment, especially for long-term therapy.
Timing: Prior to initiation of therapy, if clinically indicated.
Routine Monitoring
Frequency: Periodically, especially if patient reports headache, blurred vision, diplopia, or papilledema.
Target: Absence of symptoms
Action Threshold: Discontinue drug and refer for neurological evaluation if symptoms occur.
Frequency: Periodically, especially during sun exposure.
Target: Absence of severe sunburn or rash.
Action Threshold: Advise sun protection; discontinue if severe reaction occurs.
Frequency: Periodically, especially during prolonged therapy (e.g., >6 months) or if symptoms of hepatic dysfunction develop.
Target: Within normal limits or stable.
Action Threshold: Elevated levels or symptoms of liver injury warrant discontinuation.
Frequency: Periodically, especially during prolonged therapy or in patients with pre-existing renal impairment.
Target: Within normal limits or stable.
Action Threshold: Significant decline in function may require dose adjustment or discontinuation.
Symptom Monitoring
- Headache (especially severe or persistent)
- Blurred vision or other visual disturbances (e.g., diplopia, vision loss)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
- Skin rash, hives, or itching
- Photosensitivity (severe sunburn with minimal sun exposure)
- Joint pain or swelling
- Yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
- Dark urine, pale stools
- Unusual fatigue or weakness
- Sore throat, fever, or unusual bleeding/bruising (signs of blood dyscrasias)
Special Patient Groups
Pregnancy
Minocycline is Pregnancy Category D. It can cause permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth in the fetus if used during pregnancy. Avoid use during pregnancy unless the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.
Trimester-Specific Risks:
Lactation
Minocycline is excreted into breast milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the nursing infant (e.g., tooth discoloration, 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.
Pediatric Use
Minocycline is contraindicated in children under 8 years of age due to the risk of permanent tooth discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) and inhibition of bone growth. Minolira 105mg is indicated for patients 12 years and older.
Geriatric Use
No specific dose adjustment is generally required based on age alone. However, elderly patients may have reduced renal or hepatic function, which should be considered. Monitor for adverse effects, especially dizziness and gastrointestinal upset.
Clinical Information
Clinical Pearls
- Minolira 105mg is an extended-release formulation, designed for once-daily dosing, which may improve adherence compared to immediate-release minocycline.
- Counsel patients extensively on photosensitivity and the importance of sun protection.
- Warn patients about potential for dizziness, especially at the start of therapy, and advise caution with driving or operating machinery.
- Emphasize taking the medication with a full glass of water and remaining upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation/ulceration.
- Educate patients about the risk of permanent tooth discoloration, particularly in children under 8 years, and the importance of avoiding the drug in this age group and during pregnancy.
- Be aware of the rare but serious adverse effects like pseudotumor cerebri (idiopathic intracranial hypertension) and drug-induced lupus-like syndrome; counsel patients on warning signs.
Alternative Therapies
- Other oral tetracyclines (e.g., Doxycycline, Tetracycline)
- Other oral antibiotics for acne (e.g., Erythromycin, Azithromycin, Trimethoprim/Sulfamethoxazole)
- Topical antibiotics (e.g., Clindamycin, Erythromycin)
- Topical retinoids (e.g., Tretinoin, Adapalene, Tazarotene)
- Oral retinoids (e.g., Isotretinoin - for severe, recalcitrant acne)
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Hormonal therapies (e.g., Oral contraceptives for female patients)