Acne Medications Are Sometimes The Only Option

Sometimes over the counter acne medications are not enough to clear up a severe case of acne. Cystic acne lesions in particular often require treatment by a dermatologist. There are a number of prescription medications that can be sued to treat acne. Often a combination of oral and topical medications is used.

Severe cystic acne is often treated by injecting the individual cysts with a much diluted corticosteroid to reduce the inflammation. The injection will “melt” the cyst in three to five days and reduce the potential for scarring. Oral antibiotics are often used at a higher dose and then decreased as the acne improves. Six months of antibiotic therapy is typical.

Isotretinoin is a very powerful oral retinoid reserved for very severe cases or those that prove resistant to other oral medications.

A Broad Spectrum Of Acne Medications

Broad spectrum antibiotics such as tetracycline and its synthetic derivatives doxycycline or minocycline have been used as acne medications for years severe acne treatments solutions. It reduces the population of acne causing bacteria. Long term low dose therapy may be continued for months to keep acne under control.

Antibiotic resistance can occur, but minocycline seems to produce less instances of resistance. Oral contraceptives have been effective in treating women with acne, but should not be used in women over 35, smokers, or have a history of migraines.

Some topical anti-microbials have shown to decrease the bacteria associated with moderate to sever acne. Azelaic acid, benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, erythromycin, and sodium sulfacetamide are often used in topical preparations. Some patients report dryness and irritation with use of these products. Benzoyl peroxide will bleach the hair or clothing so care must be taken to avoid contact with towels, clothing, or hair.

The Mainstay Of Acne Medications

Topical retinoids are considered a mainstay in acne treatment these days. They do cause sun sensitivity, so avoid excess sun exposure and use proper sun protection when you must be in the sun. Adapalene comes in gel or cream form and unclogs the pores.

Tazarotene is another topical retinoid. It should not be used in pregnant women because birth defects have been reported in animals during testing. Tetinoin is the first retinoid approved for topical use and its newer versions have proven much less irritating to the skin.

If you have moderate to severe acne that does not clear with over the counter acne medications, make an appointment with a dermatologist who can prescribe some oral antibiotics and topical preparations. Prescription acne medications may be just what you need to get your acne under control.