Cyclimycin is the trade name for the prescription medication minocycline. Cyclimycin is part of a larger class of full-spectrum antibiotics called tetracyclines. Cyclimycin is indicated for the treatment of a large spectrum of bacterial infections. Minocycline was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 1971 and has been studied extensively in clinical trials and post-marketing research. Cyclimycin has proven generally safe and effective, but it may cause several side effects ranging from mild to serious.

Gastrointestinal Disturbances

Patients taking Cyclimycin may experience several gastrointestinal side effects. According to RxList, these may include anorexia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, inflammation of throat and mouth, changes in the way food tastes and smells and loss of tooth enamel. Other digestive disturbances may include short-term painful stomach and pancreatic cramping. Patients have also experienced skin lesions around the mouth and anal-genital region. RxList states that most of these reactions occur in patients who take Cyclimycin tablets or capsules orally and at night just before going to bed.

Skin and Allergic Reactions

Cyclimycin may cause skin problems and other allergic hypersensitivity reactions. According to Drugs.com, patients may experience hair loss, red painful lumps on the legs, darkening of the nails, itching, skin cell death, rash and dry skin. Male patients have reported inflammation of the penile foreskin. Patients may also experience an increased sensitivity to light. According to the Cyclimycin consumer leaflet, allergic reactions may include hives, swelling of the blood vessels, arthritis, airway obstruction and heart tremors and murmurs. Patients experiencing any allergic reactions that do not subside after a short time should inform their physician immediately to prevent any further complications.

Other Side Effects

According to Drugs.com, patients may experience several central nervous system reactions such as convulsions, dizziness, sedation, spinning sensations and intracranial pressure. According to MedlinePlus, other side effects may include blurred vision, yellowing of the skin and eyes caused by bile displacement, decreased and darkened urine, lightened stools, confusion, extreme weakness and fatigue, unusual bleeding and bruising due to changes in blood platelets, fever and chills. Side effects may only manifest for a short time and then subside as the body adjusts to the medication. Persistent and serious side effects may be an indicator that Cyclimycin is not the best choice of treatment, and patients should consult their physician to discuss a suitable alternative.