Minocycline

Abstract

Minocycline, a second generation tetracycline derivative, was first introduced in 1967. The following review considers the physiochemical and pharmacokinetic properties, antimicrobial activity, clinical uses, and adverse effects of minocycline. Excellent tissue and secretion penetration due to its higher lipid solubility, good broad spectrum activity, superior gastrointestinal absorption, decreased alteration of the fecal flora, and prolonged half-life, are properties that make minocycline a unique antimicrobial agent. Despite these exceptional characteristics, minocycline remains an infrequently used agent because of the availability of alternate drugs and the vestibular dysfunction associated with its administration.