Is minocycline effective for treating depression?

JAAPA. 2022 Jun 1;35(6):13-14. doi: 10.1097/01.JAA.0000824988.46634.1d.

Abstract

Minocycline HCl, a tetracycline antibiotic, commonly is prescribed to treat acne, but also has substantial antidepressant effects, possibly because inflammation plays a key role in depression. The drug has an acceptable safety profile, but more research is needed to determine how best to use it in treating patients with depression.

MeSH terms

  • Acne Vulgaris* / chemically induced
  • Acne Vulgaris* / drug therapy
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antidepressive Agents / therapeutic use
  • Depression / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Minocycline* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Antidepressive Agents
  • Minocycline