Arestin^® is an antibiotic in dry powder form, which is delivered locally into the gum pockets.  It is an adjunct to deep cleaning (“scaling and root planing”) in the treatment of gum disease.  The active ingredient of Arestin^® is minocycline, an antibiotic in the tetracycline family, which has a broad spectrum of activity against bacteria living in the gums.  Arestin^® is coupled to its carrier microspheres which slowly release minocycline to the surrounding area so its function against bacterial growth can be prolonged.   It should not be used by nursing mothers, or in individuals who have allergies to minocycline or tetracyclines.  Following the administration of Arestin^®, patients should avoid eating sticky or crunchy food in the treated area for at least 1 week.  Arestin^® is sometimes repeated every 3 months up to a total period of 9 months to ensure optimal results.