Dynacin contains minocycline hydrochloride, a member of the tetracycline family, and has been prescribed since the 1970s for severe acne. Although effective, especially for those patients who don't respond well to other treatments, Dynacin is more expensive than most other oral tetracyclines and does come with potentially serious side effects.
Considerations
Dynacin is contraindicated for anyone who has demonstrated a previous sensitivity to any of the other tetracyclines. It is also recommended that women who are pregnant or nursing to avoid taking Dynacin due to the likelihood the drug will impair tooth development and cause permanent discoloration of a baby's teeth.
Benefits
The minocycline in Dynacin is especially helpful in treating pustular acne. It works by reducing the amount of bacteria on the skin and in the hair follicles, as well as the inflammation which leads to the redness, swelling and tenderness of pimples. In a study performed during the 1980s reported in "Biochemical Pharmacology," it was demonstrated that minocycline doesn't cause the severe photosensitivity that other tetracyclines do. Another study reported in study in the "British Journal of Dermatology" also noted that minocycline has a better ability to penetrate the skin and provide higher concentrations in the tissues than other tetracyclines. Additional positive benefits include the fact the drug has a lower likelihood of leading to bacterial resistance, and it's less likely to cause yeast infections, common among antibiotics.
Usage
Dynacin comes in tablet form by prescription only and is usually taken near bedtime for a few days until the body adjusts to the drug. It should be accompanied by a full glass of water, and you shouldn't lie down for 30 minutes afterward. Avoid taking any medications containing magnesium, aluminum or calcium, antacids, or any vitamins or minerals within two to three hours before or after taking Dynacin to avoid preventing full absorption of the drug. Your doctor will lower the dose over time to reduce the amount that builds up in your body.
Side Effects
Common side effects include stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, drowsiness and dizziness. In rare cases, you may experience an allergic reaction including a rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness and trouble breathing. Long-term side effects can include a blue-gray discoloration of the skin which may return to normal after the drug is discontinued, although in rare cases it may be permanent. A study printed in "Clinical and Experimental Neurology" reported that benign intracranial hypertension was documented in some patients using minocycline. You may also experience vestibular side effects, leading to vertigo and nausea, said one study put out by the Center for Disease Control in Atlanta. Another rare side effect is a lupus-like syndrome, which develops in about one in 10,000 people.
Warnings
Minocycline became controversial drug following the deaths of two patients who were using the antibiotic for acne, so if you have any doubts about taking this medication, be sure to express those to your doctor. All tetracyclines can render oral contraceptives less effective, so you should use another or additional form of birth control while on Dynacin. Since this drug may make you dizzy or drowsy, you should avoid driving or using machinery if that occurs and limit alcoholic beverages. Although minocycline causes less photosensitivity thant other tetracyclines, you should still make sure that you wear protective clothing and a sunscreen.
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