Solodyn

Generic name: Minocycline hydrochloride

What is Solodyn?

Solodyn is used to treat the pimples and red bumps that happen with moderate-to-severe acne.

What is the most important information I should know about Solodyn?

Solodyn may cause an abnormal sensitivity to light. Minimize or avoid exposure to natural or artificial sunlight (tanning beds or UVA/B treatment) while taking this medication. If you need to be outdoors while using Solodyn, wear loose-fitting clothes that protect skin from sun exposure and discuss other sun protection measures with your doctor.

Take Solodyn at the same time each day, with or without food. Taking Solodyn with food may lower your chances of getting irritation or ulcers in your esophagus.

Take Solodyn exactly as directed. Skipping doses or not completing the full course of therapy may decrease the effectiveness of the current treatment course and increase the likelihood that bacteria will develop resistance and will not be treatable by other antibacterial drugs in the future.

Be aware that Solodyn may cause discoloration of skin, scars, teeth or gums and should not be used by individuals of either gender who are attempting to conceive a child.

If you do not notice an improvement in your acne after 12 weeks of treatment with Solodyn, or develop pain in the joints, a generalized feeling of discomfort, fever and rash, call your doctor right away.

Who should not take Solodyn?

Do not take Solodyn if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or to any other antibiotics. Do not use Solodyn if you are pregnant, or planning to become pregnant. This drug may cause harm to an unborn baby, or may cause a baby's teeth to turn grey or yellow.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Solodyn?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Solodyn. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney problems, blurred vision, are pregnant or planning 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 and adolescents 12 years and older: The recommended dose is 1 milligram (mg) per 2.2 pounds for 12 weeks.

How should I take Solodyn?

Swallow Solodyn tablets whole. Do not chew, crush, or split the tablets. Take Solodyn tablets at the same time everyday, with or without food. However, it is recommended to take the drug with food to prevent ulcers.

What should I avoid while taking Solodyn?

Solodyn can make your birth control pills less effective, leaving you unprotected. While taking Solodyn, use alternative contraception (eg, condoms) to avoid pregnancy.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Solodyn?

If Solodyn 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 Solodyn with any of the following: antacids containing aluminum, calcium, magnesium, or iron, birth control pills, blood thinners, other acne medications, and penicillin antibiotics.

What are the possible side effects of Solodyn?

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: diarrhea, dizziness, headache, itchiness, nausea, stomach pain, fatigue

Can I receive Solodyn if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

You should not take Solodyn if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This medication may cause harm to your unborn child, and may pass into your breast milk.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Solodyn?

If you forget to take Solodyn take it as soon as you remember. Do not take more than 1 tablet a day.

How should I store Solodyn?

Store at room temperature, in a dry area away from light.