Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking minocycline and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually once a day. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush or chew. Doing so can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.

Take each dose with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication. For this reason, do not take it right before bedtime. You may take this medication with food to lessen the chance of irritating the esophagus or stomach unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Take this medication 2 to 3 hours before or after taking any products containing aluminum, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, or bismuth subsalicylate. Some examples include antacids, quinapril, sucralfate, vitamins/minerals, dairy products (such as milk, yogurt), and calcium-enriched juice. These products bind with minocycline, preventing your body from fully absorbing the drug.

The dosage and length of treatment are based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.

For the best effect, take this antibiotic at evenly spaced times. To help you remember, take this medication at the same time every day.

Continue to take this medication for the prescribed length of time. Do not skip doses. Stopping the medication too early or skipping doses may allow bacteria to grow and make your treatment work less well.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not get better or if it gets worse.