Minocycline For Acne

Minocycline For Acne Works Because Minocycline Prevents The Growth And Reproduction Of Bacteria, Which Is One Of The Causes Of Acne.

Minocycline for acne can come in a tablet or capsule form, delayed release capsules, or liquid. Minocycline is usually taken twice a day, at the same time each day. Tablets should be taken on an empty stomach, and the delayed release capsule can be taken with a liquid other than milk or alcohol. It might take about a month for the patient to see an affect on their acne. Minocycline for acne shouldn't be taken with any other drug without the patient consulting their doctor first. Minocycline, which is in the same family as tetracyclines, often has problematic interactions with other drugs. Many of them decrease its effectiveness, including antivirals for HIV or AIDS, antacids, calcium, cholestyramine, supplements that contain iron, calcium, magnesium or zinc, and baking soda.

Minocycline will decrease the effectiveness of anticoagulants, birth control pills, and penicillin, but will increase the effect of lithium. Minocycline for acne can also react badly with common foods. The drug should not be taken with alcohol. Milk and other dairy products decrease its absorption. Minocycline, like other tetracyclines, should never be used past its expiration date. Minocycline shouldn't be taken by pregnant women or women who are breast feeding. The FDA classifies minocycline and other tetracyclines as Class D risks, which means there's some risk to the fetus. The drug also passes into breast milk.

The drug also shouldn't be taken if the patient has liver or kidney disease, lupus or myasthenia gravis. If the drug's taken over a long period of time, the patient's liver and kidney function should be monitored. Minocyclines can also heighten sensitivity to sunlight and ultraviolet rays. Common side effects of minocycline for acne are mild stomach pains, diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, lightheadedness, clumsiness and dizziness. The doctor should be notified of these symptoms when convenient. Life threatening side effects are hives with intense itching, and fainting. This indicates shock, and is a medical emergency. 911 should be called.