- Indication
- Acne
- RAG rating
- n/a
- Document type
- Patient information
- Place
- Hertfordshire and West Essex ICB
- Output type
- Pharmacy / Prescribing
- Information leaflet
- Minocycline-Patient-information-leaflet.docx
Minocycline Patient information leaflet
Minocycline – Information for Patients
NHS guidance states that some medicines should not routinely be prescribed. This is because the medicines are:
- Not as safe as other medicines OR
- Not as good (effective) as other medicines OR
- More expensive than other medicines that do the same thing.
One of these medicines is minocycline.
This document will explain why the changes are happening and where you can get more information and support.
Changes to minocycline prescribing
NHS guidance now states that minocycline should not routinely be prescribed because it has been associated with several serious side effects.
There is also no clear evidence that minocycline is more effective than other similar antibiotics.
What is minocycline used for?
Minocycline is an antibiotic that can be used to treat several conditions, but it is mainly used for the treatment of acne.
What options are available instead?
There are alternative once daily antibiotics available that work in the same way as minocycline.
Your prescriber will talk to you about the different options so that you can come to a joint decision about which treatment is best for you.
Where can I find more information and support?
· You can speak to your local pharmacist, GP practice team or the person who prescribed the medication to you.
· The Patients Association can also offer support and advice: www.patients-association.org.uk/ or call 0800 345 7115
Find out more about the medicines that are being stopped or reduced: https://www.england.nhs.uk/publication/items-which-should-not-routinely-be-prescribed-in-primary-care-policy-guidance/