Minocycline (Minocin)
Minocycline is an anti-inflammatory antibiotic sometimes used as an off-label treatment for mild rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Minocycline belongs to the group of antibiotics called tetracyclines. Although RA is not thought to be caused by an infection, minocycline may improve the signs and symptoms of this disease. Because it has been studied less and may be less effective than other options, it is not as commonly prescribed for RA.
How To Take It
Minocycline is taken twice a day as a 100 mg capsule. It may be taken with food but should not be taken with other medications such as antacids or iron tablets. It has a slow onset and may take several months to work.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of this medicine are gastrointestinal upset, dizziness, and skin rash. Patients who take this medication for a long time may notice changes in their skin color. This usually resolves after stopping the medication. Some women who take minocycline develop vaginal yeast infections. Minocycline may increase sensitivity to sunlight, resulting in more frequent sunburns or the development of rashes following sun exposure. Sunscreen use and avoiding prolonged sun exposure are recommended.
Rarely, minocycline can affect the kidneys or liver. For long-term users of minocycline, periodic blood tests are recommended to check liver and kidney function. In equally rare cases, minocycline can cause drug-induced lupus or similar autoimmune connective tissue disease. This condition usually resolves after stopping the medication.
Minocycline is passed into breast milk. To prevent delayed development of teeth and bones in their infants, mothers should avoid breastfeeding while taking minocycline. Minocycline can also increase a nursing infant’s risk of fungal infections or dizziness. Because minocycline may cause discoloration of teeth and problems with bone growth in young children, it is recommended that children younger than eight years old not take this medication. These side effects do not occur in older children and adults.
Tell Your Rheumatology Provider
Talk to your rheumatology provider if you become pregnant, are planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding. Minocycline should not be taken during pregnancy or used when breastfeeding. If you've had allergic reactions to minocycline or other tetracycline antibiotics, let your rheumatology provider know. Be sure to tell your rheumatology provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and natural remedies. Possible interactions with minocycline may occur when taking warfarin (Coumadin); antacids containing calcium, aluminum, or magnesium (such as Tums, Rolaids, Maalox, or Mylanta); iron tablets; oral contraceptives (birth control pills); tretinoin (“retinoids”); Accutane; Soriatane; and methotrexate.
Updated February 2024 by Kiren Sahni, DO, FACR, and reviewed by the American College of Rheumatology Committee on Communications and Marketing.
This patient fact sheet is provided for general education only. Individuals should consult a qualified healthcare provider for professional medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment of a medical or health condition.