Aknemin Capsule: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Precautions and Alternates

Quick overview

Aknemin Capsule contains minocycline hydrochloride, a tetracycline-class antibiotic. It is used to treat acne vulgaris and certain bacterial infections caused by susceptible bacteria. The capsule works by stopping bacteria from producing proteins they need to survive. It is typically taken once daily, as prescribed by a doctor.

What is Aknemin Capsule

Aknemin is a brand name capsule containing the antibiotic minocycline hydrochloride, which belongs to the tetracycline class of medicines.

Aknemin Capsule uses

• Acne vulgaris
• Inflammatory acne
• Moderate acne, when an oral antibiotic is appropriate
• Certain bacterial skin infections caused by susceptible bacteria
• Other susceptible bacterial infections when prescribed

Benefits of Aknemin Capsule

• Helps reduce acne-causing bacteria.
• May reduce inflamed pimples.
• Can help lessen redness and swelling.
• May reduce the formation of new acne lesions.
• Can improve acne over time when appropriately prescribed.

How Aknemin Capsule works

The medicine attaches to a part of the bacteria's machinery (the 30S ribosome) and stops them from making the proteins they need to survive, which helps clear the infection.

Aknemin Capsule dosage

Can be taken with or without food, followed by a full glass of water. Doses should be spaced evenly over 24 hours, with one dose taken 1 hour before bedtime. Do not take at the same time as antacids or products containing iron, calcium, or magnesium. Complete the entire course of treatment even if symptoms improve. Not recommended for children younger than 8 years old. Tell your prescriber about any sensitivity to sulfites before starting treatment.

Available forms and strengths

• Capsules (50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg)
• Suspension (50 mg/5 ml)
• Tablets (50 mg, 75 mg, 100 mg)

Side effects of Aknemin Capsule

Common

• Headache
• Sore throat
• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea
• Oral thrush (candidiasis)
• Mouth sores or ulcers
• Bladder or vaginal yeast infection
• Sun sensitivity, rash

Serious

• Inflammation around the heart (pericarditis)
• Low red blood cell counts (hemolytic anemia), low platelets, high eosinophils
• Dental problems including tooth pain, discoloration, gum disease, and infection
• Severe allergic reactions including anaphylaxis
• Signs of superinfection

Warnings and precautions

• This medicine may stain a developing baby's teeth if taken during the last half of pregnancy, and it should be used cautiously in pregnant patients.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as this medicine should be used cautiously while breastfeeding.
• Use with caution if you have kidney disease, and your dose may need to be adjusted.
• Use with caution if you have liver problems.
• Drinking alcohol can reduce how well this antibiotic works.
• Do not use minocycline that is past its expiry date, as old minocycline can cause serious kidney disease.
• This medicine can make hormonal birth control pills less effective, so use an additional barrier method of contraception.
• Avoid too much sun exposure, as this medicine can increase your risk of a sunburn-like skin reaction.
• Do not use this medicine if you are allergic to it, its ingredients, or other tetracycline antibiotics.

Storage

• Store below 25°C.
• Keep in the original packaging.
• Protect from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Do not use after the expiry date.

When to see a doctor

• Get medical help right away if you develop fever, chills, skin rash, unusual bleeding or bruising, sore throat, or mouth pain or discomfort.
• Watch closely for signs of a serious allergic reaction, including anaphylaxis, and seek help immediately if this occurs.

Alternatives

• Tetracycline
• Lymecycline
• Doxycycline