Acne - Prescription Acne
Treatments
There are dozens of prescription medications to treat
moderate to severe acne. Some are topical (applied to the skin surface),
others are taken as pills or injections. All require at least one visit
to a professional dermatologist or physician. Fortunately, the majority
fall into a few simple classes with pros and cons that are relatively
easy to describe.
Isotretinoin (Accutane)
Accutane is one of the oldest, and among the most effective,
prescription medications for the treatment of moderate to severe acne.
It is used on cystic and other advanced forms and has been used safely
by millions for that purpose. But it does have some potential side
effects and risks.
Pregnant women are generally advised to avoid taking isotretinoin.
Several studies have suggested that it can produce birth defects. It's a
synthetic molecule, a retinoid similar to Vitamin A, available in pill
form. As such, it can be abused. Normal dosage is once or twice per day
for 4-5 months.
It works to reduce oil production, unclog pores and kill the bacteria
that contribute to acne. It can also cause headache, excessive skin
dryness, diarrhea and other problems. However, like all side effects,
everyone is affected differently. That's one of the major reasons it's
important to see a professional regularly during the course of
treatment.
Oral Antibiotics
Acne is caused, in part, by a bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes). So,
the disease can be combated, in part, by taking antibiotics. Like all
powerful antibiotics some care is necessary when using these.
Tetracycline (or its derivatives, doxycycline and minocycline) is one of
the most commonly used. Both forms have been in use for many years and
can substantially reduce inflammatory acne. Normal dosage is 5-10 grams
per day at first, though it's reduced as treatment progresses.
Treatments may take several months. It, too, though carries some risk.
Some patients' skin becomes sensitive to the sun during treatment.
Erythromycin is another common treatment for acne. It's a broad spectrum
antibiotic and can kill Propionibacterium acnes effectively. Like any
powerful antibiotic, though, it can sometimes cause gastrointestinal
irritation. That's a major reason it's a prescription drug.
Topical Treatments
Some topical antibiotics can attack the Propionibacterium acnes bacteria
directly through the surface of the skin. They're typically used to
treat less severe cases of acne. They may even be used in cases of acne
vulgaris, a mild form.
A number of retinoids are sometimes prescribed. They may be the same
compound used in over the counter medications, but in dosages high
enough to warrant or require a prescription. Adapalene is a gel or cream
that is usually effective within two or three months. It can cause minor
skin dryness and irritation. It helps unclog pores. Tretinoin is a
natural retinoid that has similar effects.
Anyone who has tried over the counter medications or treatments and not
received satisfactory results has many other options. Nearly all acne
can be successfully treated. Get a professional diagnosis to explore
your options.
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P.Robertson
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