Structural Biochemistry/Minocycline

Minocycline is a tetra antibiotic that combats bacteria in the body. It is used to treat a variety of bacterial infections, such as urinary track infections, respiratory infections, skin infections, acne, gonorrhea, chlamydia, etc.



Overview
Minocycline is an oral antibiotic commonly used to treat acne vulgaris (commonly known as cystic acne). Minocycline are able to kill the acne bacteria more effectively as well as reduce the redness and swelling of the acne. It is most commonly dispensed as Minocycline Hydrochloride which is a semi synthetic derivative of tetracycline. The medication are antibiotics sold as: Minocin, Dynacin, Vectrin, Solodyn, and generic minocycline.

It's IUPAC Name is (4S,4aS,5aR,12aS)-4,7-bis(dimethylamino)-3,10,12,12a-tetrahydroxy-1,11-dioxo-1,4,4a,5,5a,6,11,12a-octahydrotetracene-2-carboxamide

Usage
Along with another one of its tetracycline counterparts, Doxycycline, Minocycline is the most common form of oral antibiotic prescribed to patients for acne. Refrain from taking if allergic to minocycline or other tetracycline antibiotics.

Occasionally it is used to treat Lyme disease and other skin infections such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) since the twice a day dosage for minocycline is more tolerable than the four times daily required by other tetracycline compounds. Dosage of minocycline is 100-200mg daily for the adult, but if the dosage is skipped, it is possible this will affect the treatment process.

If a dose is missed, do not take extra to make up for the missed dose. If an overdose is taken, seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.

Caution
If pregnant, do not use Minocycline. It can cause harm to the unborn child or permanent tooth discoloration. Minocycline may make birth control pills less effective. It also will pass through breast milk, effecting bone and tooth development of a nursing infant. Minocycline should not be taken by children younger than 8 years of age. Vitamin supplements should not be taken before taking Minocycine. These supplements reduce the effectiveness of it. Avoid excess sun exposure. Those taking Minocycline are easier subject to sun burn. Minocycline should be taken for the full prescribed length. Anything less will result in symptoms resurfacing. Do not take if past expiration date. Expired Minocycline may cause damage to kidneys.

Side Effects
Sensitivity (Skin) to Sunlight (Automatic) Diarhhea/Nausea/Upset Stomach Dizziness Drowsiness Headaches Vomiting Skin Discoloration

Autoimmune Disorders Chest Pains/Irregular Breathing Fever (Rare) Discoloration of Skin/Eyes (Rare) Sore Throat (rare)