Dynacin
Generic Name: Minocycline
What is Dynacin?
Dynacin is a tetracycline-class antibiotic used to treat infections of the skin, respiratory tract, and urinary tract, as well as some sexually transmitted diseases, and other conditions. Dynacin may be used along with other treatments for severe acne.What is the most important information I should know about Dynacin?
Dynacin only works against bacteria; it does not work against viruses like the common cold or flu.Children <8 years old and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take tetracycline antibiotics such as Dynacin as it may cause developing teeth to become permanently discolored. Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant before taking this medicine.
Although you may feel better shortly after beginning treatment, do not stop taking Dynacin even if you feel better or the signs/symptoms of your infection are clearing. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may decrease the effectiveness of the immediate treatment and increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by Dynacin or other antibacterial drugs in the future.
Dynacin may cause sun sensitivity (photosensitivity), which could lead to worse sunburns. Avoid sun exposure and the use of sunlamps or tanning beds and use proper sun protection. Stop Dynacin and call your doctor if your skin turns red.
Dynacin may cause lightheadedness and dizziness. Use caution if driving or using hazardous machinery while taking Dynacin until you know how it affects you.
Dynacin may interact with oral contraceptives and decrease their effectiveness. Diarrhea is a common problem caused by antibiotics and usually ends when the antibiotic is discontinued. Sometimes after starting treatment with antibiotics, people can develop watery and bloody stools (with or without stomach cramps and fever) even as late as 2 or more months after having taken the last dose of the antibiotic. If this occurs, you should contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Who should not take Dynacin?
Do not take Dynacin if you are allergic to minocycline or other tetracycline antibiotics.Dynacin is not recommended for pregnant women or children up to 8 years old.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Dynacin?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Dynacin. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney or liver problems, are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The usual dosage of Dynacin is 200 milligrams (mg) to start with, followed by 100 mg every 12 hours. If more frequent doses are necessary, two or four 50-mg tablets may be taken initially, followed by one 50-mg tablet 4 times daily. The dosage and length of time you take the drug can vary according to your condition and the specific infection.
Children over 8 years old: The usual dose is 4 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, followed by 2 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight every 12 hours, not to exceed the usual adult dose.
Gonococcal Infections (Uncomplicated)
The usual dose is 200 milligrams (mg) to start with followed by 100 mg every 12 hours for a minimum of 4 days.
Gonococcal Urethritis (Uncomplicated) in Men
The usual dose is 100 mg every 12 hours for 5 days.
Meningococcal Infections
The usual dose is 100 mg every 12 hours for 5 days.
Mycobacterium Marinum Infections
The usual dose is 100 mg every 12 hours for 6-8 weeks.
Syphilis
The usual adult dose should be given for a period of 10-15 days.
Urethral, Endocervical, or Rectal infections (Uncomplicated)
The usual dose is 100 mg every 12 hours for at least 7 days.
How should I take Dynacin?
Take Dynacin with a full glass of liquid to reduce the chance of esophageal irritation or ulcers.Dynacin capsules may be taken with or without food.
Take Dynacin exactly as your doctor tells you to take it. Do not skip doses or neglect to finish the whole course of therapy.
What should I avoid while taking Dynacin?
Avoid becoming pregnant or breastfeeding while taking Dynacin.Avoid antacids that contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium or iron-containing products.
Avoid unprotected and excessive exposure to sunlight.
What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Dynacin?
If Dynacin is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Dynacin with the following: antacids that contain aluminum, calcium, or magnesium; birth control pills, blood thinners, ergot alkaloids, iron-containing products, isotretinoin, methoxyflurane, and penicillin antibiotics.What are the possible side effects of Dynacin?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, headache, ringing in the ears, decreased hearing
Can I receive Dynacin if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
Dynacin should not be taken if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding. Dynacin may cause harm to an unborn baby or developing child <8 years.Tetracycline drugs, including Dynacin, are excreted in breast milk. Your doctor may tell you to stop breastfeeding if Dynacin is essential to your health.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Dynacin?
If you miss a dose of Dynacin, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time of your next dose, skip it and resume your scheduled dose. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Dynacin?
Dynacin should be kept at room temperature, away from excessive heat, light, and moisture.
I'm Shereen A. Gharbia, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
