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Minocycline Topical Side Effects

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

Applies to minocycline topical: topical application foam.

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

  • redness, dryness, itching, peeling, or discoloration of the treated skin

Less common side effects

Incidence not known

  • blurred vision
  • change in ability to see colors, especially blue or yellow
  • fever
  • general feeling of discomfort or illness
  • headache
  • increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight
  • itching or skin rash
  • joint or muscle pain
  • loss of appetite
  • redness or other discoloration of the skin
  • severe abdominal or stomach cramps and pain
  • severe sunburn
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • vomiting
  • watery and severe diarrhea, which may also be bloody

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

  • burning, darkening, dryness, flushing, itching, peeling, redness, or stinging on the skin, especially when used on the face
  • raised, dark red, wart-like spots on the skin, especially when used on the face

Less common side effects

  • headache

Incidence not known

  • darkening of the skin, teeth, or gums
  • dizziness or lightheadedness
  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
  • sensation of spinning

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