CHECK-UP:The potential benefits of any drug have to be weighed up against possible side effects
My 14-year-old daughter went to our GP and was prescribed a drug called minocycline for the treatment of her acne. Having read the information sheet I’m worried about the potency of this drug and its side effects.
Minocycline is one of a number of drugs used for the treatment of acne. A member of the tetracycline group of antibiotics the drug is also used to treat other conditions including pneumonia, chronic gum disease, some sexually transmitted diseases and infection in those with chronic bronchitis. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
The drug may also interfere with the functioning of the inner ear, resulting in dizziness and unsteadiness.
Less common side effects include skin rashes and increased skin sensitivity to sunlight. In most people the side effects usually disappear once the drug has been stopped.
This type of medication can interact with other drugs including oral anticoagulants, penicillin, oral contraceptives, iron and antacids.
Milk products may interfere with the absorption and efficacy of minocycline and should be avoided for an hour or two after taking the tablets.
Long-term use can cause discoloration of the skin and teeth.
The drug should not be taken by those with poor kidney function or by pregnant women as it may damage the bones and teeth of the developing child.
Those prescribed minocycline for longer than six months must have regular blood tests to assess liver function and be monitored for signs of potential side effects.
While I accept that all drugs have the potential to cause side effects, are there any drug treatments for acne that would be as effective but may be less toxic?
A review of minocycline as a treatment for acne was carried out recently which found that although the drug was effective in some people suffering from acne, there was no evidence found to suggest that it was better than any other options.
Although all tetracyclines can cause adverse effects, minocycline use has been associated with additional problems such as autoimmune hepatitis, vasculitis, systemic lupus erythematosus and hyper-pigmentation of the skin.
These side effects have seen the use of the drug decline since they were first reported.
If you are uneasy about your daughter taking these drugs or concerned about potential side effects, you should return to your GP to discuss alternative treatment options. Other types of tetracycline may provide a safer alternative treatment.