Minocycline

Last updated 25 Nov 2025 | 09:34 AM (UTC)

Minocycline Uses

Minocycline is used in the treatment of bacterial infections.

How Minocycline works

Minocycline is an antibiotic. It stops bacterial growth by preventing synthesis of essential proteins required by bacteria to carry out vital functions.

Common side effects of Minocycline

Headache, Dizziness, Itching, Fatigue

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Medicine brands for Minocycline

Minoz

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd

Ajanta Pharma Limited

₹256 to ₹433

3 variant(s)

CNN

Ipca Laboratories Ltd

₹273 to ₹546

3 variant(s)

Minyum

Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd

₹3320 to ₹3320

1 variant(s)

Minotas

Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd

₹243 to ₹384

2 variant(s)

Minonex

Indiabulls pharmaceutical ltd

Expert advice for Minocycline

Your doctor has prescribed Minocycline to cure your infection and improve symptoms.
Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection to come back and harder to treat.
It may cause dizziness. Don't drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how Minocycline affects you.
Diarrhea may occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Discontinue Minocycline and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.
Your doctor has prescribed Minocycline to cure your infection and improve symptoms.
It should be taken on an empty stomach.
Do not skip any doses and finish the full course of treatment even if you feel better. Stopping it early may make the infection to come back and harder to treat.
It may cause dizziness. Don't drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how Minocycline affects you.
Diarrhea may occur as a side effect but should stop when your course is complete. Inform your doctor if it doesn't stop or if you find blood in your stools.
It can lower the efficacy of birth control pills. Use an alternative method of contraception ( condom, diaphragm, spermicide) while taking this medication.
Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Do not take antacids or medicines containing zinc or iron at least 2 hours before or 6 hours after taking Minocycline.
Discontinue Minocycline and inform your doctor immediately if you get a rash, itchy skin, swelling of face and mouth, or have difficulty in breathing.

Frequently asked questions for Minocycline

Q. Can Minocycline get you high?

No, Minocycline is not known to get anyone high. It does not cause dependence either physical or psychological. Also, it does not have any abuse potential.

Q. What does Minocycline do for acne?

Minocycline belongs to tetracycline class of medicine. It treats the infection by preventing the growth and spread of bacteria. It kills the acne-causing bacteria, which infect pores. It also decreases certain natural oily substance that causes acne.

Q. Does Minocycline affect contraception?

Minocycline reduces the effectiveness of oral birth control pills. Therefore, one should use other methods of contraception while on treatment with Minocycline. Discuss with your doctor if you are not sure.

Q. Can I take Minocycline during pregnancy?

Minocycline should be avoided during pregnancy as it may cause harm to your unborn baby. Using the medicine during the last half of pregnancy may cause permanent discolouration of teeth and underdevelopment of tooth enamel. Discuss with your doctor for any further query.

Q. Does Minocycline cause dizziness?

Yes, Minocycline may cause dizziness, lightheadedness, visual disturbances, ringing in the ears, and a feeling of spinning (vertigo). If you experience any of these symptoms avoid driving or operating machinery.

Q. What should I avoid while on Minocycline?

Minocycline may make your skin sensitive to sunlight. Avoid unnecessary or prolonged exposure to sunlight. It is advised to wear protective clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Furthermore, avoid alcohol while on Minocycline as it may increase risk of liver toxicity.