Alterations in neuronal survival and glial reactions after axotomy by ceftriaxone and minocycline in the mouse hypoglossal nucleus

► Hypoglossal motoneuron survival after axotomy was improved by antibiotics. ► Ceftriaxone increased the expression of astrocytic glutamate transporter (GLT-1). ► Immediate increase in microglia after injury was not inhibited by minocycline. ► Microglial density at later time points of axotomy was suppressed by minocycline. ► Regulation of glial reactions by antibiotics may be related to neuronal survival.