Oral Antibiotic
Reviews
3.2
1954 Reviews
Oral Antibiotic
Efficacy
54%
Based on All Available Studies
Strength of Evidence
1
2
3
4
5
Note: Should never be used on its own and for a maximum of 3 months.
Oral Antibiotic
Side Effects
High
Oral Antibiotic
Acne.org’s Real World Take
Antibiotics should be used for a maximum of 3 months, provide only moderate benefit and only to some people, and may lead to side effects and strains of resistant bacteria. Studies do show they can reduce severe acne in the short term, but approach with caution and stay your own advocate.
Oral Antibiotic
How to Get It
Have a dermatologist? Make an appointment to get this medication. Don't have a dermatologist? See The American Academy of Dermatology Physician Database to find one.
Read All About Minocycline
Compare To Other Treatments
5
17.3%
4
27.7%
3
24%
2
16%
1
14.9%

Used Minocycline? Rate It:

Choose from 1 to 5 stars
December 16, 2008

Pros:

Saw an improvement in redness and inflamed acne within a week. Slowly progressed from there.

Cons:

None really, I have very sensitive skin and a sensitive stomach and have seen no side effects such as nausea, etc. so far.

I've been on it for about a month and a half now and have certainly seen an improvement, but this is by no means a miracle drug. I still get the occasional breakouts, although I'm much better off than I was before. My breakouts are all on my chin and the rest of my face has a notably improved complexion.
November 18, 2008

Pros:

Cleared up my acne for the most part. Still have the ocassional spot however no longer get cystic acne.

Cons:

Can't be taken within a few hours of food.

My physician started me off on 100mg twice daily, but then decreased it to 50mg twice daily after the first two weeks. Well when I switched to the 50mg twice daily routine I broke out. Since then I have been taking 100mg twice daily and my face cleared right up. Im taking this medication as well as using Tretinoin on my face before bedtime and have seen an improvement. However, still not 100 percent.
November 17, 2008

Pros:

None.

Cons:

It is not a safe product.

Do not use minocycline. I had very bad acne and I was prescribed it. It caused a disease called PSEUDOTUMOR CEREBRI. I have to get severe headaches and need lumbar puncture all the time, and for the rest of my life because of this product. Do not take the risk just to clear up acne.
November 13, 2008

Pros:

cleared up alot of my skin; gets better with time

Cons:

a little dizziness at first; strict instructions on when to take it

i have been taking this med for about 5 months now and along with my bp face wash, i have seen great improvements. i don't have severe acne, but i did break out every once in a while. my skin is much better now, i never break out, but i do have the occasional pimple.
November 4, 2008

Pros:

Works well if taken properly

Cons:

Once you stop using it your blemished return.

recommended
October 30, 2008

Pros:

It helped my acne

Cons:

I had the worst side affect from it. I got psuedo-tumor cerebri (which is basically a brain tumor!) I had double vision and a blind spot because of it. I had to get spinal taps to help relieve the problem. I was very, very sick from it!

You can use it, but stay out of the sun (because I didn't) and if the doctor increases your dosage, be very careful!!
October 30, 2008

Pros:

None =[

Cons:

This acutally made my face break out worse than it ever has before. By acne was always mild, but i was looking to improve it, and this product just made it worse!!! I also found myself feeling tired alot...

Wouldn't reccommend it
October 29, 2008

Pros:

Easy to swallow, works pretty fast

Cons:

None so far.

Using this 2 times a day, 50mg. Never had trouble with any side effects, not even minor stomach problems. Breakouts can happen in early stages because the bacteria dies and gives all he got left before he is destroyed. Seems to be working, although I can't really judge yet. Most of the people can use it without any problems I guess, it isn't as dangerous as people shout here.
October 29, 2008

Pros:

For the most part does what it's supposed to do. Cheap if you have insurance, mine covered it.

Cons:

None so far...I could be picky and say it's not 100% effective but I'm nowhere near the full process taking time yet.

If you are thinking about trying it, just do it because it just might work for you. Since starting I'd say 95% of my acne has gone away, and to my surprise very fast. I only have one pimple on my nose right now and I'm hoping it will go away soon too. For those worried about the possible bad side effects I would say not to worry, I've had none thankfully, and hopefully won't. I realize things work different for all of us, but if you were like me and just got sick of your acne (though I will admit mine was light) don't hesitate to try this.
October 29, 2008

Pros:

helps slow acne breakouts down

Cons:

havent had any of those thing happen yet to me

i havent seen huge results im kinda broke out

Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.