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Minocycline
Minocycline is an antibiotic often used to treat common infections, such as pneumonia, urinary tract infections, and gonorrhea. It works by decreasing bacteria's ability to make protein (which it needs to survive). Minocycline comes in various forms and strengths, and is typically taken once or twice a day. Possible side effects include nausea, diarrhea, and dizziness.
Minocycline is a prescription antibiotic that is licensed to treat a number of common infections. It is part of a class of antibiotics called tetracyclines.
Common uses include the following:
- Treatment for bacterial infections, such as:
- Certain types of pneumonia
- Certain types of urinary tract infections (UTIs)
- Rocky Mountain spotted fever
- Gonorrhea
- Chlamydia.
- Acne treatment (see Minocycline for Acne)
- Treatment of anthrax infections.
(Click Minocycline Uses for more information.)
A special extended-release powder form of minocycline is placed in the gums to help treat periodontitis (gum disease). Minocycline has not been approved for use in children under the age of 8.
As mentioned, minocycline is part of a class of drugs called tetracyclines. It decreases bacteria's ability to make protein. This activity does not directly kill the bacteria, but it does inhibit their growth and multiplication, which gives the immune system a chance to fight the infection.
Minocycline also has anti-inflammatory activity.
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD