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Minocycline Topical foam

What is this medication?

MINOCYCLINE (mi noe SYE kleen) treats acne or rosacea. It works by decreasing inflammation and killing or preventing the growth of bacteria on your skin. It belongs to a group of medications called tetracycline antibiotics.

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

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Amzeeq, Zilxi

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, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
  • Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
  • Breastfeeding

How should I use this medication?

This medication is for external use only. Do not take it by mouth. Wash your hands before and after use. Do not get it in your eyes. If you do, rinse your eyes with plenty of cool tap water. Use it as directed on the label at the same time every day. Do not use it more often than directed. Use it for the full course as directed by your care team, even if you think you are better. Do not stop using it unless your care team tells you to stop it early.

Shake the can well before using it. Clean the affected area of the skin and pat it dry. Hold the can upright and spray the medication into your hand. Rub it into the affected area until the foam disappears. Do not bathe, shower, or swim for at least 1 hour after you apply this medication.

This medication comes with INSTRUCTIONS FOR USE. Ask your pharmacist for directions on how to use this medication. Read the information carefully. Talk to your pharmacist or care team if you have questions.

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Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. While it may be prescribed for children as young as 9 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

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.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

What may interact with this medication?

Interactions are not expected. Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without talking to your care team.

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.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Tell your care team if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medication may cause serious skin reactions. They can happen weeks to months after starting the medication. Contact your care team right away if you notice fevers or flu-like symptoms with a rash. The rash may be red or purple and then turn into blisters or peeling of the skin. You may also notice a red rash with swelling of the face, lips, or lymph nodes in your neck or under your arms.

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 sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps, tanning beds, or tanning booths.

This medication may discolor clothing.

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
  • Rash, fever, and swollen lymph nodes
  • Redness, blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin, including inside the mouth

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

  • Change in skin color
  • Diarrhea
  • Headache
  • Mild skin irritation, redness, or dryness

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?

Keep out of the reach of children and pets.

Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Do not refrigerate. Avoid exposure to extreme heat. Get rid of any unused medication 90 days after opening.

This medication is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

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To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:

  • Take the medication to a take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
  • If you cannot return the medication, ask your pharmacist or care team how to get rid of it safely.

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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