Minocycline

Fact Checked

Medically reviewed by Kenny Cheuk Yin Cheung, Pharmacist

Last updated on 06/07/2021.

GENERIC NAME: Minocycline

CHINESE NAME: 米諾環素

BRAND NAME(S) IN HONG KONG: Apo-Minocycline

DRUG CLASS: Antibiotics

SUB CLASS: Tetracyclines

USED FOR: Susceptible infections, acne

AVAILABLE DOSAGE FORMS: 50 mg, 100 mg (capsules)

What is Minocycline for?

Minocycline belongs to a class of medications called tetracycline antibiotics. It kills bacteria by inhibiting protein synthesis in bacterial cells. Minocycline is mainly used for acne and susceptible infections. Minocycline does not work for virus infections.

How to use it?

Minocycline is available as capsules which may be taken by mouth. It should be taken on an empty stomach (at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals). Take capsules with a full glass of water to avoid esophageal irritation.

Susceptible infections
100 mg twice daily.

Acne
Adult
50 mg twice or 100 mg once daily.

What are the side effects of Minocycline?

Common side effects of Minocycline include angioedema, diarrhoea, nausea and vomiting, dizziness and skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Who should not take Minocycline?

– People allergic to Minocycline or any component of the formulation.
– Children under 12 years.

Pharmacist Tips:

– Antibiotics like Minocycline may reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives. Consider using another form of contraception while taking Minocycline.
– This medication may cause photosensitivity. Use sunscreen and avoid tanning beds and prolonged exposure to sunlight.
– This medication can make you dizzy. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how you respond to Minocycline.
– Avoid dairy products and preparations containing Aluminium, Calcium, Iron, Magnesium or Zinc, including antacids. Take them at least 1-2 hours before or 4 hours after Minocycline.

Common dosing schedule:
Take Minocycline on an empty stomach (1 hour before or 2 hours after meals) which enhances its absorption.

This schedule is for reference only, adjustments may be made according to individual needs.

Some common medications Minocycline may interact with:
– Warfarin and other anticoagulants
– Antacids, e.g. Aluminium Hydroxide, Calcium Carbonate
– Multivitamins / mineral supplements that contain Calcium, Iron or Magnesium
– Oral contraceptives, e.g. Desogestrel, Drospirenone, Levonorgestrel

Please notify your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking the above medication, dosage adjustments might be needed.

Where to buy Minocycline in Hong Kong?

In Hong Kong, Minocycline is a prescription only medicine, and requires a prescription from a doctor to be purchased in a pharmacy. It can also be obtained from doctors. To find a pharmacy near you, refer to the list of pharmacies (“Authorized Sellers of Poisons”) from the Hong Kong Department of Health.

For more information about drug names and ingredients, you can visit Hong Kong’s Drug Office at https://www.drugoffice.gov.hk

Need more information?

For detailed information about the use of Minocycline in children, pregnancy and breastfeeding, and for questions about drug interactions, please check with your pharmacist or doctor.

Disclaimer: our goal is to provide you with the most relevant drug information and common dosage for Hong Kong. This information does not constitute medical advice. For specific treatment recommendations and advice, always discuss with your doctor or pharmacist, and follow the instructions included with your specific medicine.