Skip to main content

Minocycline Topical Side Effects

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Feb 23, 2025.

Applies to minocycline topical: subgingival powder.

Other dosage forms:

Serious side effects of minocycline topical

Along with its needed effects, minocycline topical may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking minocycline topical:

More common side effects

  • bleeding from the gums
  • chills
  • dental pain
  • fever
  • pain, redness, and swelling in the mouth
  • problems with teeth
  • redness or swelling of the gums
  • toothache

Less common side effects

  • bad taste in the mouth
  • discharge from the gums
  • foul breath odor
  • painful sores in the mouth
  • problems in the lining of the mouth

Other side effects of minocycline topical

Some side effects of minocycline topical may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

Less common side effects

  • acid or sour stomach
  • belching
  • cough
  • heartburn
  • increased sensitivity to sunlight
  • indigestion
  • pain
  • pain in the joints or muscles
  • runny nose
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

Managing side effects (general information)

For healthcare professionals

Applies to minocycline topical: mucous membrane insert, topical foam.

General adverse events

Minocycline topical powder is intended for local application only. Systemic effects from the absorption of small amounts of the drug are unlikely.[Ref]

Other

Other side effects have included headache (9%) and pain (4.3%).[Ref]

Dermatologic

Dermatologic side effects have included stomatitis (6.4%), mouth ulceration (5%), and mucous membrane disorder (3.3%).[Ref]

Gastrointestinal

Gastrointestinal side effects have included dyspepsia (4%).[Ref]

Local

Local side effects have included periodontitis (16.3%), tooth disorder (12.3%), tooth caries (9.9%), dental pain (9.9%), gingivitis (9.2%), pharyngitis (4.3%), and dental infection (3.8%).[Ref]

Immunologic

Immunologic side effects have included flu syndrome (5%) and infection (7.6%).[Ref]

References

1. (2001) "Product Information. Arestin (minocycline topical)." OraPharma Inc

Further information

Minocycline topical side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Note: Medication side effects may be underreported. If you are experiencing side effects that are not listed, submit a report to the FDA by following this guide.

Medical Disclaimer