MINOCYCLINE is a tetracycline antibiotic. It stops the growth of some bacteria. It is used to treat many kinds of infections, like acne, respiratory, urinary tract, and sexually transmitted infections. It will not work for colds, flu, or other viral infections.

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• an unusual or allergic reaction to minocycline, tetracycline antibiotics, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding

Take this medicine by mouth with a full glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Take this medicine at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals. If it upsets your stomach, you can take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often than directed. Take all of your medicine as directed even if you think your are better. Do not skip doses or stop your medicine early.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

• antacids
• birth control pills
• ergot alkaloids
• isotretinoin
• methoxyflurane
• other antibiotics like penicillin
• some multivitamins
• warfarin

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care providers a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

Tell your doctor or health care professional if your symptoms do not improve.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your doctor if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

Do not take this medicine just before going to bed. It may not dissolve properly when you lay down and can cause pain in your throat.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells.

Birth control pills may not work properly while you are taking this medicine. Talk to your doctor about using an extra method of birth control.

If you are being treated for a sexually transmitted infection, avoid sexual contact until you have finished your treatment. Your sexual partner may also need treatment.

Avoid antacids, aluminum, calcium, magnesium, and iron products for 2 hours before and after taking a dose of this medicine.

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
• breathing problems
• fever
• itching in the rectal or genital area
• muscle or joint pain
• pain or difficulty passing urine
• pain on swallowing
• redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
• seizures
• severe stomach pain or cramps
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• unusually weak or tired
• white patches or sores in the mouth
• yellowing of the eyes or skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• diarrhea
• discolored mouth, gum, lip, or teeth
• loss of appetite
• nausea, vomiting

This list may not describe all possible side effects.

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from heat, light and moisture. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. Taking this medicine after the expiration date can make you seriously ill.