Uses: This medication is used to treat moderate to severe acne in patients 12 years of age and older. It helps to reduce the number of pimples. Minocycline belongs to the class of antibiotics known as tetracyclines. It works by stopping the growth of bacteria that may worsen acne. This antibiotic is approved to treat acne that is thought to be caused by a bacterial infection. It will not work for viral infections (e.g., common cold, flu). Unnecessary use or overuse of any antibiotic can lead to its decreased effectiveness.