Discussions

Anyone had any experience with Mylan-Minocycline for Acne?  
 
My doctor has prescribed it (a 3-month dose) as well as a topical cream to promote growth of new, healthy skin  
 
I have always been hesitant to use drugs, especially for acne, but I noticed my acne seemed to clear up this summer when I was on antibiotics for something else. And as it turns out, Minocycline is just an antibiotic (as opposed to Accutane, which is a stronger, more dangerous drug) So I'm reconsidering it.  
 
Has anyone had success with it?

If you are looking for a non drug antibiotic, silver might be your answer. It is also anti-viral, anti-fungal- anti-whatever ails you.  
 
The guy that turned blue from drinking silver water was consuming four ounces at every meal. I would recommend using it as a rinse after cleaning, instead of alcohol based swabs.  
 
Keep a food diary and start eliminating what may be triggers. Although it may be genetic, some foods may make it worse. Dairy is the one for me and my face cleared up when I restricted or removed cheese and ice cream. It was okay for skim or one percent milk or small doses of cream in my coffee but that ice cream cone or pizza had my face popping out the next morning. It may not be the chocolate but the milk chocolate that aggravates it. Try darker (72%) chocolate for that craving (in moderation).  

It smells bad at first but it's an affordable option. It dries out the acne. You can use it as a rub ( best option) you can put a few drops in your bath ( good for all over acne but it can leave a burning sensation if your sensitive) I have seen it used as a anti fungal as well

Thank you, but I've heard and tried everything. This is why I approached my doctor. I'm specifically looking for experiences with Minocycline. Thanks.

I am a primary care provider, and have prescribed Minocycline many times for inflammatory acne, as well as acne on the back and chest. It works very well for many people, if used correctly (ie- take it as Rx'd daily, don't miss doses) along with topical therapies. It is usually prescribed only for a limited number of months, usually not more than 6 at the most (but more often for 3-4). Be patient, as the improvement may not happen right away, it can take a month or two. Be sure to wear sunscreen when out in the sun, as it can make you more apt to burn.  
That class of antibiotics has both the anti-bacterial effects of decreasing the colony count of P Acnes (the acne bacteria) as well as anti-inflammatory effects of decreasing the inflammation in the skin that the inflammatory acne causes. Often it is also prescribed with a topical retinoid (ie- Tretinoin) once a day and a topical Benzoyl peroxide once a day. Wash with Spectro or Cetaphil once a day, and just water once a day (if a woman wears make-up, I often say to use the cleanser at the end of the day to wash off the make-up). Some dermatologists recommend to wean off the oral antibiotic and onto a topical antibiotic-benzoyl peroxide combination after a few months, if the acne is improving. It is not recommended to prescribe both oral and topical antibiotics at the same time. Oral contraceptives can also improve acne in women, and can be used along with all of the above. Hope that helps!  
 
Edited by curlysister, 2015-10-14 15:29:20

For acne several years ago. I swear it made food taste odd (happened both times I was on it so I know it was the drug). I switched to Fucidin topical antibiotic and have been very happy with it. It's an off label use but it's the only thing that's ever worked for me.

I had it prescribed by a derm, I did notice a difference fairly soon but as time went on I felt it wasn't making much of a difference anymore. Wasn't sure if it's something your body "gets used to"? I have since switched to Accutane for 1 month and I know there's a lot of scary stuff out there about it but it has made the biggest difference for me in my problem area (chin and cystic acne) which minocycline just couldn't keep up with. I also found using the Clarisonic brush has made a huge difference in the texture and appearance of my skin. It penetrates deep to get rid of all the gunk so your cleansers and whatnot can really get "into" the skin. Good luck! I know the frustration!

Yes, I was prescribed minocycline for acne, along with Tactuo (topical acne med). They cleared up my acne! Occasionally I break out on my chin now but it's not the constant cystic acne that I had before I went on it.

I never had acne as a young person, but in my late thirties I got an acne infection and it was very stubborn. The Dr. prescribed minocycline, it worked great. Take it faithfully for the whole time, and treat the acne as an infection, using clean washcloths/towels, use soap and water to wash, and a salt water soak can't hurt either.

I was prescribed it for acne in 6 wk courses. Had usually a 6-8 week break in between. Was on it over a year and doing amazing now. Now only suggested I come back if flare up but have not had. Worked fast and very well. Can affect taste a bit as many drugs can. Take a probiotic with meals for the stomach and follow directions for taking at night well after meals and at least 30 min before sitting down ( otherwise uncomfortable acid). Have tried mnay other things and this is the best with less side effect. Also has been used and studied for some time unlike other drugs still with unknowns. Do stay out of the sun. I found that was more of a problem early on only however my doctor took me off over summer. My only side effect might have been dental related, extra plaque build up so might want to keep up on dental cleanigs. The BLU silk and flash worked well too for cystic acne but hear it does not work for everyone. Good luck, acne is such a pain.