Arestin

Minocycline hydrochloride, also known as minocycline, is a member of the broad spectrum tetracycline antibiotics, and has a broader spectrum than the other members. As a result of its long half-life it generally has serum levels 2-4 times that of most other tetracyclines (150 mg giving 16 times the activity levels compared to 250 mg of tetracycline at 24-48 hours). more...

It is marketed under several trade names, including Minomycin, Minocin, Arestin, and Dynacin.

Indications

It is primarily used to treat acne and rosacea as the once daily 100mg doasage is far easier for patients than the four times a day required with Tetracycline or Oxytetracycline.

Although minocycline's broader spectrum of activity, compared to other members of the group, includes activity against Neisseria meningitidis, its use as a prophylaxis is no longer recomended because of side effects (dizziness and vertigo).

Cautions and Side effects

In additon to those common to the Tetracycline antibiotics group, minocycline may be used in renal impairment, but may aggrevate systemic lupus erythematosus. ( and ).

Possible additional indications

Current research is examining the possible neuroprotective effects of minocycline against progression of Huntington's Disease, an inherited neurodegenerative disorder. (Research is summarized here and here.) The neuroprotective action of minocycline may include its inhibitory effect on 5-lipoxygenase , an inflammatory enzyme associated with brain aging .

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