Minocycline Periodontal Powder

Minocycline periodontal powder is an antibiotic medication that treats periodontitis. This is a severe bacterial gum disease. Minocycline kills or prevents the growth of bacteria in your mouth. It can also reduce gum inflammation. The brand name of this medication is Arestin®.

What is this medication?

MINOCYCLINE (mi noe SYE kleen) treats a severe bacterial gum disease (periodontitis). It works by killing or preventing the growth of bacteria, which helps to reduce inflammation of your gums. It belongs to a group of medications called tetracycline antibiotics.

This medicine may be used for other purposes; ask your health care provider or pharmacist if you have questions.

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Arestin

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What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • An unusual or allergic reaction to minocycline, tetracycline antibiotics, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breast-feeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is placed in the gum pocket. It is given in an office or clinic setting. Follow your care team's advice for the care of your mouth after the application of this medication. Do not touch or brush the treated area for 12 hours. Do not eat hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for 1 week after treatment. Do not use interproximal cleaning devices in the treated area for 10 days.

Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.

Overdosage: If you think you have taken too much of this medicine contact a poison control center or emergency room at once.

NOTE: This medicine is only for you. Do not share this medicine with others.

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What if I miss a dose?

This does not apply.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected.

This list may not describe all possible interactions. Give your health care provider a list of all the medicines, herbs, non-prescription drugs, or dietary supplements you use. Also tell them if you smoke, drink alcohol, or use illegal drugs. Some items may interact with your medicine.

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What should I watch for while using this medication?

Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

Do not treat diarrhea with over the counter products. Contact your care team if you have diarrhea that lasts more than 2 days or if it is severe and watery.

This medication can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?

Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:

  • Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Increased pressure around the brain—severe headache, blurry vision, change in vision, nausea, vomiting
  • Joint pain
  • Liver injury—right upper belly pain, loss of appetite, nausea, light-colored stool, dark yellow or brown urine, yellowing skin or eyes, unusual weakness or fatigue
  • Pain or trouble swallowing
  • Rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
  • Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth
  • Severe diarrhea, fever
  • Unusual vaginal discharge, itching, or odor

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):

  • Change in tooth color
  • Diarrhea
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Headache

This list may not describe all possible side effects. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Where should I keep my medication?

This medication is given in a hospital or clinic and will not be stored at home.

NOTE: This sheet is a summary. It may not cover all possible information. If you have questions about this medicine, talk to your doctor, pharmacist, or health care provider.

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Note: Introduction and Additional Common Questions written and medically approved by Cleveland Clinic professionals.

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