Minocycline (HCl)

Minocycline (HCl) is a tetracycline antibiotic with activity against many gram-negative and gram-positive organisms. Minocycline (HCl) is inactive against viruses and fungi. In general, minocycline is the most lipid soluble and is considered the most active of the tetracycline group. Like doxycycline, minocycline is considered a long-acting tetracycline. Because of its lipid solubility, minocycline attains concentrations in the tears and saliva sufficient to eradicate the meningococcal carrier state. Minocycline is equivalent to doxycycline in the treatment of nongonococcal urethritis and mucopurulent cervicitis, but causes fewer adverse effects than doxycycline. Minocycline also has activity against some bacteria that are resistant to other tetracyclines. It has recently been shown to be effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Minocycline was approved by the FDA in 1971. Minocycline (HCl) is generally bacteriostatic against most organisms, although high concentrations of tetracyclines may be bactericidal. Bacteriostatic action appears to be a result of reversible binding to ribosomal units of susceptible organisms and inhibition of protein synthesis

Minocycline (HCl) is primarily indicated in conditions like Acne, Bacterial infections, Cholera, Gonorrhea, Granulomatous disease, Nocardiosis, Respiratory tract infections, Syphilis, and can also be given in adjunctive therapy as an alternative drug of choice in Acne vulgaris, Gastro-esophageal reflux disease (refractory to other treatment), Meningitis.

Minocycline (HCl) is contraindicated in conditions like Systemic lupus erythematosus.

The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Minocycline (HCl), which give rise to further complications include Stevens Johnson syndrome. The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Minocycline (HCl) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Dizziness, Vertigo, Fever, Erythema, Photosensitivity, Nausea and vomiting, Exfoliative dermatitis, Vestibular dysfunction.

Minocycline should be used with caution (if contains tartrazine) in patients with aspirin hypersensitivity, because it may cause allergic reactions (including bronchial asthma). Take appropriate measures if secondary infection occurs. Perform periodic lab evaluation of organ system (e.g. liver or kidney) in case of long term therapy.

Drug should not be given to Pediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, patients suffering from Kidney dysfunction, patients suffering from Liver Malfunction, and Neonates. If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

1.428 mg/kg (1.4 (1.428)) 12 hourly PO — Maintenance 2.857 mg/kg (2.9 (2.857)) 24 hourly PO — Initial, loading dose.

2 mg/kg (2 (2)) 12 hourly PO — Maintanace dose 4 mg/kg (4 (4)) As recommended. PO —

No neonatal dosage information is recorded for this medicine yet.

Minocycline (HCl) is known to interact with other drugs, the details of drug interactions is as follows:DrugDetailsSeverityOnsetManagementColestipol (HCl)DigoxinMinocycline may decrease the absorption of Digoxin.ModerateMonitor for decreased therapeutic effects of Digoxin if oral Minocycline is initiated/dose increased, or increased effects if oral Minocycline is discontinued/dose decreased. Dose spacing does not appear to help minimize this interaction. Administering I.V. formulations of digoxin will bypass this interaction.LithiumRetinol (Vitamin A)Sodium BicarbonateTetracycline (HCl)Theophylline These interactions are sometimes beneficial and sometimes may pose threats to life. Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.

Tab, Caps, Oral Susp Store Below 40°C. Protect from Sunlight and Moisture.