Minocycline: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Minocycline is a tetracycline-class antibiotic whose extended-release tablets are used to treat inflamed spots in moderate to severe non-nodular acne. This formulation is indicated for people aged 12 years and older, rather than for non-inflammatory acne lesions, and it requires a prescription in the United Kingdom. Generic minocycline has been available since 1991-12-30.

Minocycline hydrochloride extended-release tablets are indicated for inflammatory lesions in moderate to severe non-nodular acne vulgaris in people aged 12 years and older. In plain language, this means the inflamed spots associated with this type of acne. The tablets did not demonstrate an effect on non-inflammatory acne lesions.

This extended-release formulation has not been evaluated for treating infections, so its acne indication should not be interpreted as an indication for other bacterial conditions. The label limits its use to the stated indication to help reduce the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and preserve the effectiveness of antibacterial medicines.

Minocycline belongs to the tetracycline class of antibiotics. These medicines interfere with the machinery that bacteria use to make proteins. Without those proteins, bacteria cannot grow and multiply as readily.

This action generally slows bacterial growth rather than directly destroying bacteria. Tetracyclines also have anti-inflammatory effects, which help explain their use for inflamed acne lesions. This general mechanism does not mean that every minocycline formulation is suitable for treating infections.

The label lists oral capsules at 40 mg, 50 mg, 75 mg and 100 mg, and oral tablets, including film-coated tablets, at 50 mg, 75 mg and 100 mg. The label lists extended-release oral tablets, including film-coated versions, at 45 mg, 55 mg, 65 mg, 80 mg, 90 mg, 105 mg, 115 mg and 135 mg. The label lists topical aerosol foam at 15 mg/g and 40 mg/g, intravenous injection at 100 mg, and oral powder at 1 mg.

The label lists approximately 1 mg/kg once daily for 12 weeks for the extended-release acne formulation, with selection based on body weight. Higher dosages have not shown additional benefit for inflammatory acne lesions and may increase acute balance-related adverse reactions. The extended-release tablets are intended to remain whole, rather than being chewed, crushed or split.

Administration may be with or without food; food may reduce oesophageal irritation. Renal impairment requires a reduced daily dosage or longer intervals between doses.

A missed dose can interrupt the regular treatment schedule. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule, avoiding a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

If the next scheduled dose is near, the missed dose is usually omitted. A pharmacist can clarify what this means for the particular formulation and prescription.

Minocycline may cause permanent discolouration of developing teeth and reversible inhibition of bone growth during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Limited human reports are insufficient to establish the risk of birth defects or miscarriage; animal studies found developmental harm. The label advises discontinuing treatment if pregnancy occurs and discussing the risk to the fetus.

Minocycline passes into breast milk after oral administration. Breastfeeding is not recommended during extended-release tablet treatment or for 4 days after the final dose. There are no data on its effects on milk production.

The label specifies storage at 20 to 25 degrees Celsius. Protect from light, moisture and excessive heat, and keep out of reach of children. A tight, light-resistant container with a child-resistant closure is specified.