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
April 24, 2008

Pros:

I am 27 and have suffered form Cystic acne since 10 or 11. I have tried every topical and Birth control. Finally at 27 I was given Minocycline. No more cysts!

Cons:

None

It work wonders. I began taking 2 pill twice daily for 6 weeks. Then 3 pill daily for 3 weeks then 2 pills daily for 2 weeks then 1 pill daily for a week then every other day till I was taking none. It was about 9 months before any sign of a cyst occured and when it did I began taking the pill 2 times daily for 2 or 3 weeks! I was told once you have adult acne it is always there you can maintain though. I think it worked wonders! I basically acne free now. I had no side effects at all.
April 11, 2008

Pros:

I've only been using Solodyn for 4 days and I have already completely cleared up. Also, taking it only once a day is great.

Cons:

About an hour after taking this medication I feel absolutely terrible. Headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness.

Since I've only been using Solodyn for a few days now I'm hoping that the negative side effects are going to go away (and SOON!!). I don't really know what is worse, how I feel on this medicine, or the acne. I think if the headaches continue for much longer I will have to fine something else, which is a shame because I think this is really helping my skin.
April 4, 2008

Pros:

Didn't make my skin worse

Cons:

Didn't help at all; also my insurance wouldn't cover, and cost at Costco (cheapest pharmacy around here) was $546. for a 30-day supply!! (Solodyn manufacturer wouldn't honor "free" card after the 1st month's supply, due to my insurance deductible...)

If it would've helped at all, I would've been willing to pay whatever it cost (within reason). I took it daily/faithfully for 2 months and I didn't see any improvement at all! (for treatment of pustules)
March 14, 2008

Pros:

Works very well for me.This is my 3rd time to start a course and its always worked for me!!

Cons:

Spots return when off it

Ive used this drug a few times in my life.Its always effective so much so after 3 months forget I have acne and stop all Acne treatment. This time I have got a 6month perscription and determined to use this acne free( I hope) period to get my life and health in order,better food,less alcohol( used to drink a fair bit) and vitmains,zinc supplements etc.Im also breaking in my skin to Dans regime as I can try BP without fear of it causing any acne.
February 19, 2008

Pros:

Works very well. Cleared my face quickly. No problem with cost because my insurance covers most of it.

Cons:

Didnn't clear my back acne. Still taking this medication. It's been over 6 months. Recently had a dosage increase to try to help. I'm always tired no energy. I always feel like throwing up but I never do. Better taken with food.My lips are darker

You have to give it a chance to work. It does work. I heven't come off of it yet, so I don't know if the acne returns or stays away.
February 8, 2008

Pros:

Works great, cleared up all my acne

Cons:

some side affects are brutal, it can be really hard on the stomach

recommended product for those who has low self esteem due to acne, or just want to get rid of their acne. Defenitly works, but it can take some time.
February 5, 2008

Pros:

did'nt really make a great difference..cleared a few big spots up though

Cons:

no side affects..(i dont think..lol)

It's alright i wouldnt take it again because i thought it was going to make a big difference like the others i had took for my skin..but it didnt its alright.it did get rid of a couple..but that might have been my pill..for me their was better ones but everyone different x
January 30, 2008

Pros:

Seems to be working.

Cons:

None yet.

Used it for 2 weeks. So far it's working well. Skin not too dry and a noticable differance in my face. Hope it keeps working this well. Cost could be a issue. $500.00 retail. Got the rebate card from my derm. Between that and my inssurance, only payed $25.00.
January 16, 2008

Pros:

It worked for for about two weeks

Cons:

After those two weeks, my skin got severely dry and broke out even worse than before I had started taking the medication.

Don't use this product. I doesnt have lasting effects and ends up making your skin worse.
January 14, 2008

Pros:

Cleared up skin quickly but my cystic acne is very moderate.

Cons:

Dry skin but no other cons.

I use this product in conjunction with Azalex and Differen. I have had moderate cystic acne on my chin for about 2 years and this worked immediately. I don't know if it is a fluke but right now I'm happy. This cost $447 but my insurance covered it and I only paid $9. If I didn't have insurance I'm not sure I would pay for this out of pocket even with the good results.

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.