Acne Prescription Treatment

When you go to the dermatologist and he prescribes the acne treatments, have you ever wonder what they are or what is their benefit??? Let find out about that.

The acne treatment can divide into 4 categories: Topical Antimicrobials, Topical retinoids, Oral antibiotics and Oral Contraceptives

1. Topical Antimicrobials

Topical antimicrobials such as clindamycin, the most widely used topical antimicrobial, and erythromycin are used in mild to severe acne cases. By attacking the bacteria P. Acnes and its inflammatory effects, both of these acne medications help to minimize and eliminate papules and pustules.

Clindamycin

Clindamycin are used in mild to severe acne cases. By attacking the bacteria P. Acnes and its inflammatory effects, both of these acne medications help to minimize and eliminate papules and pustules. The topical form has proven safe and well tolerated. Possible side effects are skin dryness and irritation.

Benzoyl Peroxide

 

Benzoyl peroxide can be found over the counter in cleansers, gels, and lotions, as well as in stronger prescription creams. It is generally an inexpensive treatment, and can be found in both name brands and generic products. Propionibacteria acnes, or P. acnes, are the bacteria responsible for acne breakouts. They cannot live in an aerobic (oxygen-rich) environment. Benzoyl peroxide works by introducing oxygen into the pore, thereby killing P. acnes.

2. Topical retinoids

Topical retinoids, such as tretinoin, are a derivative of vitamin A and are used for mild to severe inflammatory acne. They unclog pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from forming. Retinoids can, however, cause irritation and increased sun sensitivity. So be sure to use sun protection and follow your doctor's advice.

Retinoids

Retin-A (tretinoin) has been around for years, and preparations have become milder and gentler while still maintaining its effectiveness. Newer retinoids include adapalene (Differin) and tazarotene (Tazorac). These medications are especially helpful for unclogging pores.

Side effects may include irritation and a mild increase in sensitivity to the sun. With proper sun protection, however, they can be used even during sunny periods. In December 2008 the U.S. FDA approved the combination medication known as combination preparation, known as Epiduo gel, which contains the retinoid adapalene along with the antibacterial cleanser benzoyl peroxide. This once-daily prescription treatment was approved for use in patients 12 years of age and older.

 

3. Oral antibiotics

Oral antibiotics are used for the treatment of more severe acne and occasionally for moderate cases. Like topical antimicrobials, oral antibiotics reduce the P. acnes bacteria and subsequently decrease inflammation. Most doctors start treatment with tetracycline or one of the related "cyclines," such as doxycycline and minocycline.

As the drugs has some side affects, you also should take them under the doctor's control. The pregnant women should avoid the drugs because they can affect the baby. Meanwhile, problems with these drugs can include allergic reactions (especially sulfa), gastrointestinal upset, and increased sun sensitivity. Doxycycline, in particular, is generally safe but can sometime cause esophagitis (irritation of the esophagus, producing discomfort when swallowing) and an increased tendency to sunburn.

4. Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives can be used as an effective acne treatment for many women and can be used as long-term acne therapy. They work by suppressing the overactive sebaceous glands responsible for the oily skin secretions that lead to clogged pores and acne.

There are potential serious health risks when taking oral contraceptives, which can be life threatening, including blood clots, stroke, and heart attacks. These health risks are increased if you smoke cigarettes.