Uses of Minocycline

Minocycline is used to treat many different bacterial infections, such as urinary tract infections, acne, gonorrhea, and chlamydia, among others.

Minocycline Precautions

Minocycline may decrease the effectiveness of birth control pills. Use a second method of birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking minocycline. void prolonged exposure to sunlight. Minocycline may increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

Minocycline Directions

Take each dose of minocycline with a full glass of water (8 ounces). Minocycline may be taken on an empty stomach or with food or milk. Do not take iron supplements, multivitamins, calcium supplements, antacids, or laxatives within 2 hours of taking minocycline as these products may reduce the effectiveness of minocycline.

Side Effects of Minocycline

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking minocycline and seek emergency medical attention:

• vision changes;
• confusion;
• an allergic reaction (swelling of your lips, face, or tongue, difficulty breathing);
• a severe headache;
• liver damage (yellowing of the skin or eyes, nausea, abdominal pain or discomfort, unusual bleeding or bruising, severe fatigue);
• blood problems (fever, fatigue, easy bruising or bleeding); or
• genital sores or itching.

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue to take minocycline and talk to your doctor:

• dizziness or lightheadedness;
• sensitivity to the sun;
• nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite;
• dark "furry" tongue, black tongue, or swollen tongue; or
• vaginal yeast infection.