Minocin (Minocycline HCl)

Minocin is an antibiotic used to treat certain bacterial infections of the respiratory (lung) tract, urethra, rectum, or skin; Rocky Mountain spotted fever or other types of fever; severe acne; or certain sexually transmitted diseases (such as chlamydia, gonorrhea, or syphilis). Minocin can be used to treat certain bacterial infections for people who are allergic to penicillin or cannot take penicillin antibiotics. It may also be used to treat other bacterial infections, as determined by your doctor.

Minocin can cause permanent discoloration (yellow-gray-brown) of the teeth if it is taken during tooth development (during the last half of pregnancy, infancy, and childhood to the age of 8 years). Minocin can also impair the bone growth of a baby. Minocin can also cause other serious side effects. Stop taking Minocin and call your doctor if you develop unusual headaches, blurred vision, rash, joint pain, or feel very tired. Minocin can make your skin more sensitive to light. If you notice skin eruptions developing, stop the medication and call your doctor immediately. You may consider using sunscreen or sunblock when taking Minocin. Minocin can cause central nervous system (CNS) effects, including lightheadedness, dizziness, and a spinning feeling (vertigo). Do not drive or operate machinery if you experience these symptoms. Diarrhea is a common problem when taking antibiotics; it usually ends when the antibiotic is stopped. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, people may develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as two or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. Contact your doctor right away if this occurs. Take Minocin as prescribed by your doctor for the full course of treatment, even if your symptoms improve earlier. Do not skip doses. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of Minocin can decrease its effectiveness and can lead to the growth of bacteria that are resistant to the effects of Minocin.