ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

Acne, simply defined, is an infection of the skin which can affect an individual’s face, neck, back (and to some extent, even the arms). The most severe cases of acne are inflammatory and these are most often referred to as spots, zits or pimples. About 85% of teenagers have acne (from the mildest to the most severe forms). There are many medications and acne treatments that can be administered to acne patients; some are topical (such as acne creams and astringents) while some come in the form of capsules or tablets (the antibiotic forms).  

WHAT RESEARCH FOUND?

There have been numerous past researches that have proven that antibiotics that are used in treating acne could also be the triggers for common illnesses. This was further reiterated by an experiment where volunteers subjected themselves to six weeks of antibiotic treatments for acne. After the said experiment, the volunteers who were subjected to this controlled condition were found to be more susceptible to URTI or upper respiratory tract infection (more than 200% more vulnerable to URTI). The cases of URTI were found to have developed within a year after the volunteers have been administered the acne antibiotics. It was also discovered that those who did not take the said antibiotics did not develop the respiratory tract illness.

The experts have explained that overuse of antibiotics (or even its misuse) could lead to bacteria (and other organisms) that have become resistant. This leads to the body being more prone to infectious diseases. These experts explained further that the ideal control group that should undergo experimental antibiotic treatment would be individuals with acne problems. This group should undergo long-term antibiotic therapy to finally see the effects of longer exposure.    

THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

The University of Pennsylvania (School of Medicine) has come up with their own experiment regarding acne. From 1982 up until the year 2002, experts from the University have identified participants from a United Kingdom database on the said experiment who were aged 15-35 years old.  

This experiment answered the usual questions intended for acne patients such as how often they go to consult a physician; the common illnesses that they have developed while under treatment; and whether they have contracted URTI. The results have long since come out and the experts have observed and reported that during the first year of their experiment, 15.4% of the patients who were afflicted with acne had at least a single occurrence of URTI. Within that same year, those who have taken antibiotics were found to be 2.15% more vulnerable to URTI as compared to their counterparts who weren’t administered with antibiotics.  

CONCLUSION

An antibiotic, in general, is the first line of defense against most infectious illnesses. Your head could be throbbing and your nose stuffy and you can’t think of anything but sleep all day so, normally, you might resort to antibiotic medication. Think twice before you ever do that again. Most cases of sore throat, flu and colds are not treated with the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can be pretty powerful when used in treating serious or fatal infectious diseases. The lower forms of illnesses would just have to do with the usual pain reliever or paracetamol. Antibiotic-resistant germs have evolved because of people’s mentality that an antibiotic is the primary cure for most infections-even acne. The lesson is this - stay as far away from antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. You would never know when you would really need it.

ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

Acne, simply defined, is an infection of the skin which can affect an individual’s face, neck, back (and to some extent, even the arms). The most severe cases of acne are inflammatory and these are most often referred to as spots, zits or pimples. About 85% of teenagers have acne (from the mildest to the most severe forms). There are many medications and acne treatments that can be administered to acne patients; some are topical (such as acne creams and astringents) while some come in the form of capsules or tablets (the antibiotic forms).  

WHAT RESEARCH FOUND?

There have been numerous past researches that have proven that antibiotics that are used in treating acne could also be the triggers for common illnesses. This was further reiterated by an experiment where volunteers subjected themselves to six weeks of antibiotic treatments for acne. After the said experiment, the volunteers who were subjected to this controlled condition were found to be more susceptible to URTI or upper respiratory tract infection (more than 200% more vulnerable to URTI). The cases of URTI were found to have developed within a year after the volunteers have been administered the acne antibiotics. It was also discovered that those who did not take the said antibiotics did not develop the respiratory tract illness.

The experts have explained that overuse of antibiotics (or even its misuse) could lead to bacteria (and other organisms) that have become resistant. This leads to the body being more prone to infectious diseases. These experts explained further that the ideal control group that should undergo experimental antibiotic treatment would be individuals with acne problems. This group should undergo long-term antibiotic therapy to finally see the effects of longer exposure.    

THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

The University of Pennsylvania (School of Medicine) has come up with their own experiment regarding acne. From 1982 up until the year 2002, experts from the University have identified participants from a United Kingdom database on the said experiment who were aged 15-35 years old.  

This experiment answered the usual questions intended for acne patients such as how often they go to consult a physician; the common illnesses that they have developed while under treatment; and whether they have contracted URTI. The results have long since come out and the experts have observed and reported that during the first year of their experiment, 15.4% of the patients who were afflicted with acne had at least a single occurrence of URTI. Within that same year, those who have taken antibiotics were found to be 2.15% more vulnerable to URTI as compared to their counterparts who weren’t administered with antibiotics.  

CONCLUSION

An antibiotic, in general, is the first line of defense against most infectious illnesses. Your head could be throbbing and your nose stuffy and you can’t think of anything but sleep all day so, normally, you might resort to antibiotic medication. Think twice before you ever do that again. Most cases of sore throat, flu and colds are not treated with the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can be pretty powerful when used in treating serious or fatal infectious diseases. The lower forms of illnesses would just have to do with the usual pain reliever or paracetamol. Antibiotic-resistant germs have evolved because of people’s mentality that an antibiotic is the primary cure for most infections-even acne. The lesson is this - stay as far away from antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. You would never know when you would really need it.

ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

ACNE ANTIBIOTICS AND THE COMMON ILLNESSES THAT THEY MIGHT CAUSE

Acne, simply defined, is an infection of the skin which can affect an individual’s face, neck, back (and to some extent, even the arms). The most severe cases of acne are inflammatory and these are most often referred to as spots, zits or pimples. About 85% of teenagers have acne (from the mildest to the most severe forms). There are many medications and acne treatments that can be administered to acne patients; some are topical (such as acne creams and astringents) while some come in the form of capsules or tablets (the antibiotic forms).  

WHAT RESEARCH FOUND?

There have been numerous past researches that have proven that antibiotics that are used in treating acne could also be the triggers for common illnesses. This was further reiterated by an experiment where volunteers subjected themselves to six weeks of antibiotic treatments for acne. After the said experiment, the volunteers who were subjected to this controlled condition were found to be more susceptible to URTI or upper respiratory tract infection (more than 200% more vulnerable to URTI). The cases of URTI were found to have developed within a year after the volunteers have been administered the acne antibiotics. It was also discovered that those who did not take the said antibiotics did not develop the respiratory tract illness.

The experts have explained that overuse of antibiotics (or even its misuse) could lead to bacteria (and other organisms) that have become resistant. This leads to the body being more prone to infectious diseases. These experts explained further that the ideal control group that should undergo experimental antibiotic treatment would be individuals with acne problems. This group should undergo long-term antibiotic therapy to finally see the effects of longer exposure.    

THE UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA

The University of Pennsylvania (School of Medicine) has come up with their own experiment regarding acne. From 1982 up until the year 2002, experts from the University have identified participants from a United Kingdom database on the said experiment who were aged 15-35 years old.  

This experiment answered the usual questions intended for acne patients such as how often they go to consult a physician; the common illnesses that they have developed while under treatment; and whether they have contracted URTI. The results have long since come out and the experts have observed and reported that during the first year of their experiment, 15.4% of the patients who were afflicted with acne had at least a single occurrence of URTI. Within that same year, those who have taken antibiotics were found to be 2.15% more vulnerable to URTI as compared to their counterparts who weren’t administered with antibiotics.  

CONCLUSION

An antibiotic, in general, is the first line of defense against most infectious illnesses. Your head could be throbbing and your nose stuffy and you can’t think of anything but sleep all day so, normally, you might resort to antibiotic medication. Think twice before you ever do that again. Most cases of sore throat, flu and colds are not treated with the use of antibiotics. Antibiotics can be pretty powerful when used in treating serious or fatal infectious diseases. The lower forms of illnesses would just have to do with the usual pain reliever or paracetamol. Antibiotic-resistant germs have evolved because of people’s mentality that an antibiotic is the primary cure for most infections-even acne. The lesson is this - stay as far away from antibiotics unless absolutely necessary. You would never know when you would really need it.

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

Tazorac® is available only by prescription. You can purchase Tazorac® from online drugstores at a discounted price:

Tazorac® Tazarotene Cream

0.05% cream - 30 grams for $59.00    

0.10% cream - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® Tazarotene Gel

0.05% gel - 30 grams for $59.00   

0.10% gel - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® offers a $35 rebate the next time you purchase a tube of Tazorac® Cream and Gel 0.1%. Just get your prescription filled then fill out their downloadable form on their official website.

Tazorac® comes in two strengths – 0.05% and 0.1%. The 0.05% strength is recommended for the treatment of acne vulgaris and psoriasis, the type of which causes abnormally large patches on the skin. The 0.1% strength is used to eliminate mild to moderate facial acne. The drug has the same chemical make-up as vitamin A.

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

When talk about best acne remedies, natural should be your first choice. In fact in certain cases chemical treatments if not appropriate can lead to some disfiguration of the skin and can make the end result worse. Moreover, people have more faith on natural remedies mainly because they do not have side effects like chemical treatments.

Acne is basically the infection that takes place when the sebaceous glands overwork and excess oil blocks the hair follicles, natural remedies mainly aim to stop the generation of a surplus amount of oil. Different kinds of natural cures are found when treatment of acne happens to be the concern.

HERBAL REMEDY

Herbals remedy can be the key for you to attain skin that you always wanted. If use of herbs like aloe vera, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, sandalwood oil and tea tree oil are made, then the occurrence of acne can not only be controlled it can even be stopped. A combination of a number of herbs can in fact be of more help and can eradicate the problem of acne for a long time to come. Among the best acne remedies, neem is one that, if made into a paste and applied can work wonders upon your skin. And if you lack the time to devote to such lengthy procedures you get natural substances like neem and turmeric in powdered form.

FRUITS REMEDY

Other than acne treatments that make use of herbs in the healing process, fruits are also great natural substances to counter the occurrence of acne. Fruits such as mango, papaya, apple, grapefruit and even raisins can be used by applying them directly and making masks by mashing them. You can even make your toner using parts of cucumber juice, apple cider vinegar and tea tree and distilling them in mineral water.

NATURAL SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

You can easily make out the magic of natural cures once you see the range of natural products available. The best acne remedies include cures that fight against inflammation, that soothe the skin and those which naturally absorb oil. Among oil-absorbing substances the most common are the Konjac root and charcoal both of which are added to skincare products.

Before you try any of the above mentioned remedies you must carry out a personal research of your own so that you exactly know the remedy best for you. Remember what works for others might not work for you. Visit the reliable internet sources to find out what type of best acne remedies suit you could be a good way to start.

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

Tazorac® is available only by prescription. You can purchase Tazorac® from online drugstores at a discounted price:

Tazorac® Tazarotene Cream

0.05% cream - 30 grams for $59.00    

0.10% cream - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® Tazarotene Gel

0.05% gel - 30 grams for $59.00   

0.10% gel - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® offers a $35 rebate the next time you purchase a tube of Tazorac® Cream and Gel 0.1%. Just get your prescription filled then fill out their downloadable form on their official website.

Tazorac® comes in two strengths – 0.05% and 0.1%. The 0.05% strength is recommended for the treatment of acne vulgaris and psoriasis, the type of which causes abnormally large patches on the skin. The 0.1% strength is used to eliminate mild to moderate facial acne. The drug has the same chemical make-up as vitamin A.

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

When talk about best acne remedies, natural should be your first choice. In fact in certain cases chemical treatments if not appropriate can lead to some disfiguration of the skin and can make the end result worse. Moreover, people have more faith on natural remedies mainly because they do not have side effects like chemical treatments.

Acne is basically the infection that takes place when the sebaceous glands overwork and excess oil blocks the hair follicles, natural remedies mainly aim to stop the generation of a surplus amount of oil. Different kinds of natural cures are found when treatment of acne happens to be the concern.

HERBAL REMEDY

Herbals remedy can be the key for you to attain skin that you always wanted. If use of herbs like aloe vera, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, sandalwood oil and tea tree oil are made, then the occurrence of acne can not only be controlled it can even be stopped. A combination of a number of herbs can in fact be of more help and can eradicate the problem of acne for a long time to come. Among the best acne remedies, neem is one that, if made into a paste and applied can work wonders upon your skin. And if you lack the time to devote to such lengthy procedures you get natural substances like neem and turmeric in powdered form.

FRUITS REMEDY

Other than acne treatments that make use of herbs in the healing process, fruits are also great natural substances to counter the occurrence of acne. Fruits such as mango, papaya, apple, grapefruit and even raisins can be used by applying them directly and making masks by mashing them. You can even make your toner using parts of cucumber juice, apple cider vinegar and tea tree and distilling them in mineral water.

NATURAL SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

You can easily make out the magic of natural cures once you see the range of natural products available. The best acne remedies include cures that fight against inflammation, that soothe the skin and those which naturally absorb oil. Among oil-absorbing substances the most common are the Konjac root and charcoal both of which are added to skincare products.

Before you try any of the above mentioned remedies you must carry out a personal research of your own so that you exactly know the remedy best for you. Remember what works for others might not work for you. Visit the reliable internet sources to find out what type of best acne remedies suit you could be a good way to start.

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

WHERE TO BUY TAZORAC®?

Tazorac® is available only by prescription. You can purchase Tazorac® from online drugstores at a discounted price:

Tazorac® Tazarotene Cream

0.05% cream - 30 grams for $59.00    

0.10% cream - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® Tazarotene Gel

0.05% gel - 30 grams for $59.00   

0.10% gel - 30 grams for $59.00

Tazorac® offers a $35 rebate the next time you purchase a tube of Tazorac® Cream and Gel 0.1%. Just get your prescription filled then fill out their downloadable form on their official website.

Tazorac® comes in two strengths – 0.05% and 0.1%. The 0.05% strength is recommended for the treatment of acne vulgaris and psoriasis, the type of which causes abnormally large patches on the skin. The 0.1% strength is used to eliminate mild to moderate facial acne. The drug has the same chemical make-up as vitamin A.

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

BEST ACNE REMEDIES - HERBALS, FRUITS AND NATURAL PRODUCTS

When talk about best acne remedies, natural should be your first choice. In fact in certain cases chemical treatments if not appropriate can lead to some disfiguration of the skin and can make the end result worse. Moreover, people have more faith on natural remedies mainly because they do not have side effects like chemical treatments.

Acne is basically the infection that takes place when the sebaceous glands overwork and excess oil blocks the hair follicles, natural remedies mainly aim to stop the generation of a surplus amount of oil. Different kinds of natural cures are found when treatment of acne happens to be the concern.

HERBAL REMEDY

Herbals remedy can be the key for you to attain skin that you always wanted. If use of herbs like aloe vera, yellow dock, sarsaparilla, sandalwood oil and tea tree oil are made, then the occurrence of acne can not only be controlled it can even be stopped. A combination of a number of herbs can in fact be of more help and can eradicate the problem of acne for a long time to come. Among the best acne remedies, neem is one that, if made into a paste and applied can work wonders upon your skin. And if you lack the time to devote to such lengthy procedures you get natural substances like neem and turmeric in powdered form.

FRUITS REMEDY

Other than acne treatments that make use of herbs in the healing process, fruits are also great natural substances to counter the occurrence of acne. Fruits such as mango, papaya, apple, grapefruit and even raisins can be used by applying them directly and making masks by mashing them. You can even make your toner using parts of cucumber juice, apple cider vinegar and tea tree and distilling them in mineral water.

NATURAL SKIN CARE PRODUCTS

You can easily make out the magic of natural cures once you see the range of natural products available. The best acne remedies include cures that fight against inflammation, that soothe the skin and those which naturally absorb oil. Among oil-absorbing substances the most common are the Konjac root and charcoal both of which are added to skincare products.

Before you try any of the above mentioned remedies you must carry out a personal research of your own so that you exactly know the remedy best for you. Remember what works for others might not work for you. Visit the reliable internet sources to find out what type of best acne remedies suit you could be a good way to start.

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

Clearogen™ may not be as well-advertised as Proactiv® but word is spreading around like wildfire online and offline based on the positive results its users had achieved. Two words – it works.

Clearogen™ gets rid of acne by attacking the root of the problem instead of just the symptoms. Acne is a result of over-production of oil triggered by hormones such as testosterone. Clearogen™ stops testosterone from turning to dihydro-testosterone(DHT), which is the real cause of acne. By checking the release of hormones, Clearogen™ helps regulate the body’s oil production.

Clearogen™ also causes androgen receptors to stop DHT from stimulating the oil glands to produce excess oil which is the main cause of acne. Once oil production is normalized, Clearogen™ starts its healing process by first opening up the pores, peels off the dead skin cells and destroys the acne-promoting bacteria.

Clearogen™ is a good acne treatment that works. Overall, Clearogen™ produces better results for acne sufferers than Proactiv®. For $69 and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this product is worth trying out.

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

Clearogen™ may not be as well-advertised as Proactiv® but word is spreading around like wildfire online and offline based on the positive results its users had achieved. Two words – it works.

Clearogen™ gets rid of acne by attacking the root of the problem instead of just the symptoms. Acne is a result of over-production of oil triggered by hormones such as testosterone. Clearogen™ stops testosterone from turning to dihydro-testosterone(DHT), which is the real cause of acne. By checking the release of hormones, Clearogen™ helps regulate the body’s oil production.

Clearogen™ also causes androgen receptors to stop DHT from stimulating the oil glands to produce excess oil which is the main cause of acne. Once oil production is normalized, Clearogen™ starts its healing process by first opening up the pores, peels off the dead skin cells and destroys the acne-promoting bacteria.

Clearogen™ is a good acne treatment that works. Overall, Clearogen™ produces better results for acne sufferers than Proactiv®. For $69 and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this product is worth trying out.

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

DOES CLEAROGEN™ REALLY WORK?

Clearogen™ may not be as well-advertised as Proactiv® but word is spreading around like wildfire online and offline based on the positive results its users had achieved. Two words – it works.

Clearogen™ gets rid of acne by attacking the root of the problem instead of just the symptoms. Acne is a result of over-production of oil triggered by hormones such as testosterone. Clearogen™ stops testosterone from turning to dihydro-testosterone(DHT), which is the real cause of acne. By checking the release of hormones, Clearogen™ helps regulate the body’s oil production.

Clearogen™ also causes androgen receptors to stop DHT from stimulating the oil glands to produce excess oil which is the main cause of acne. Once oil production is normalized, Clearogen™ starts its healing process by first opening up the pores, peels off the dead skin cells and destroys the acne-promoting bacteria.

Clearogen™ is a good acne treatment that works. Overall, Clearogen™ produces better results for acne sufferers than Proactiv®. For $69 and a 60-day money-back guarantee, this product is worth trying out.

Prescription Medications for Treating Acne

A variety of prescription medications are used today to clear acne. Topical (applied to the skin) medications may be prescribed for mild to severe acne. Systemic (works internally) therapy is needed to treat severe acne and may be used for moderate cases. These medications, which play an important role in acne treatment, attack the different factors that lead to acne. To achieve long-term control and resolution, dermatologists may combine therapies. The following describes the prescription medications used in the United States to treat acne:

Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection

When an acne cyst becomes severely inflamed, there is a good chance that it will rupture and scarring may result. To treat these severely inflamed cysts and prevent scarring, dermatologists may inject such cysts with a much-diluted corticosteroid. This lessens the inflammation and promotes healing. An interlesional corticosteroid injection works by "melting" the cyst over a period of 3 to 5 days.

Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a potent oral retinoid that is reserved for treatment of very severecystic acne and severe acne that has proven itself resistant to other medications. For more information about isotretinoin, see Treating Severe Acne.

Oral Antibiotics

For patients with moderate to severe and persistent acne, oral antibiotics have been a mainstay of therapy for years. Like topical antimicrobials, oral antibiotics work to reduce the P. acnes population (a contributing factor in acne), which, in turn, decreases inflammation. Treatment with oral antibiotics usually begins with a higher dosage, which is reduced as acne resolves. Generally, antibiotics are prescribed for six months or less.

Over time, the P. acnes bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotic being used to treat it. When resistance occurs, acne is no longer controlled. Another antibiotic or alternative treatment can be prescribed. Numerous studies support the effectiveness of the following oral broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are used to treat acne in the United States:

• Erythromycin. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including P. acnes. The most common side effect is irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
   
• Tetracycline and derivatives. Tetracyclines reduce the papules andpustules (inflammatory lesions) of acne. These medications should not be taken by children younger than 8 years of age because they can affect growth and stain teeth. They should also not be taken by a woman who is pregnant or breast feeding. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, tetracyclines can affect the development of the child’s bones and teeth, leading to skeletal defects.

A typical tetracycline regimen for treating moderate to severe acne starts with a dose of 500 to 1000 milligrams a day, which is decreased as improvement occurs. Long-term, low-dose tetracycline therapy may be continued for many months to suppress acne. Higher doses may be prescribed for very severe acne.

Two synthetic derivatives of tetracycline used to treat acne aredoxycycline and minocycline. Doxycycline proves especially effective in treating inflammatory acne. It can cause sun sensitivity in some patients. Minocyline has a long history of use in treating acne. It is often effective in treating acne that has not responded to other oral antibiotics. Minocycline also seems to produce fewer incidents of antibiotic resistance.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives have been shown to effectively clear acne in women by suppressing the overactive sebaceous glands and can be used as long-term acne therapy. However, oral contraceptives should not be prescribed to women who smoke, have a blood-clotting disorder, are older than 35 or have a history of migraine headaches—without the advice of a gynecologist.

Topical Antimicrobials

Topical antimicrobials work to inhibit the P. acnes populations and are used to treat patients with mild to moderately severe inflammatory acne. They may be used alone or combined with a medication that works on another factor that leads to acne aside from P. acnes. A dermatologist can determine whether a topical antimicrobial is appropriate for a patient and if so which topical antimicrobial should be prescribed. Prescription topical antimicrobials used to treat acne vulgarisin the United States include:

• Azelaic acid. Naturally occurring in the skin, azelaic acid is used to treat mild to moderate inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. It is believed that azelaic acid clears acne by reducing the populations of P. acnes, decreasing the abnormal shedding of skin cells and reducing inflammation. This medication has also proven effective in treating the dark spots that develop in some acne patients with skin of color. Azaleic acid is well tolerated by most people and can be safely used for years. Side effects may include skin dryness and lightening of the skin where applied.
   
• Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing P. acnes. However, it does not have anti-inflammatory abilities. It is available in a wide range of strengths and can be found as a gel, lotion, cleanser, cream and wash. Many acne preparations include benzoyl peroxide because research shows that benzoyl peroxide increases the effectiveness of some medicines, such as erythromycin and clindamycin. When used in combination with antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide also reduces the likelihood of a patient developing resistance to the antibiotic. The most common side effects are skin irritation, the potential to bleach hair and fabrics as well as possible allergic reaction.
   
• Clindamycin. A semi-synthetic antibiotic, topical clindamycin has a long history of successfully treating acne. It works by reducing P. acnes and decreasing inflammation. In topical form, clindamycin has proven safe and is well tolerated. Skin dryness and irritation are possible side effects. It is important to use as directed to decrease bacterial resistance that can occur with antibiotic use.
   
• Erythromycin. This topical antibiotic is active against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including P. acnes. Topical erythromycin, which is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, is used primarily to treat acne. When topical erthyromycin is combined with benzoyl peroxide, the combination proves to be quite effective as the patient gets the effects of two antimicrobial agents. Like topical clindamycin, erythromycin may cause skin dryness and possible irritation. It is important to use as directed to decrease bacterial resistance that can occur with antibiotic use.
   
• Sodium sulfacetamide. A topical antibiotic that inhibits P. acnes and opens clogged pores, sodium sulfacetamide is effective in treating inflammatory acne. Many products containing sodium sulfacetamide include sulfur. Some patients do not like the smell of the sulfur or its grittiness. Usually, the newer products that contain sulfur do not have these problems.

Topical Retinoids

Prescribed to treat acne ranging from mild to moderately severe, topical retinoidsare a derivative of vitamin A and considered a cornerstone in acne treatment. Retinoids work to unclog pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from forming. Topical retinoids can irritate the skin and increase sun sensitivity so it is important to use sun protection and follow the dermatologist’s directions to maximize effectiveness. An added benefit in using topical retinoids is that they may help diminish the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Topical retinoids currently prescribed for acne treatment in the United States include:

• Adapalene. A synthetic retinoid applied as a gel or cream, adapalene unclogs pores and possesses moderate to potent anti-inflammatory abilities. Improvement is usually seen in 8 to 12 weeks. Side effects include minor skin irritation and dryness.
   
• Tazarotene. A synthetic retinoid available as a gel or cream, it works to keep the skin’s pores clear and has proven effective in treating acne. This medication should not be used by women who are pregnant, and effective contraception is needed while taking tazarotene because the medication has produced birth defects in animals. Skin irritation is a possible side effect.
   
• Tretinoin. The first retinoid developed for topical use, tretinoin is a natural retinoid. It works to gradually unclog pores and keep them unplugged. In the past, many patients found tretinoin too harsh for their skin; however, the newer forms are proving less irritating. Side effects include redness, scaling, dryness, itching and burning. If these occur, talk with the dermatologist who prescribed tretinoin as these side effects can be managed by adjusting the amount applied and when it is applied.

Reference:

Thiboutot, D. “New Treatments and Therapeutic Strategies for Acne.” Archives of Family Medicine 2000: 9:179-187.

Prescription Medications for Treating Acne

A variety of prescription medications are used today to clear acne. Topical (applied to the skin) medications may be prescribed for mild to severe acne. Systemic (works internally) therapy is needed to treat severe acne and may be used for moderate cases. These medications, which play an important role in acne treatment, attack the different factors that lead to acne. To achieve long-term control and resolution, dermatologists may combine therapies. The following describes the prescription medications used in the United States to treat acne:

Interlesional Corticosteroid Injection

When an acne cyst becomes severely inflamed, there is a good chance that it will rupture and scarring may result. To treat these severely inflamed cysts and prevent scarring, dermatologists may inject such cysts with a much-diluted corticosteroid. This lessens the inflammation and promotes healing. An interlesional corticosteroid injection works by "melting" the cyst over a period of 3 to 5 days.

Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a potent oral retinoid that is reserved for treatment of very severecystic acne and severe acne that has proven itself resistant to other medications. For more information about isotretinoin, see Treating Severe Acne.

Oral Antibiotics

For patients with moderate to severe and persistent acne, oral antibiotics have been a mainstay of therapy for years. Like topical antimicrobials, oral antibiotics work to reduce the P. acnes population (a contributing factor in acne), which, in turn, decreases inflammation. Treatment with oral antibiotics usually begins with a higher dosage, which is reduced as acne resolves. Generally, antibiotics are prescribed for six months or less.

Over time, the P. acnes bacteria can become resistant to the antibiotic being used to treat it. When resistance occurs, acne is no longer controlled. Another antibiotic or alternative treatment can be prescribed. Numerous studies support the effectiveness of the following oral broad-spectrum antibiotics, which are used to treat acne in the United States:

• Erythromycin. It is effective against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including P. acnes. The most common side effect is irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.
   
• Tetracycline and derivatives. Tetracyclines reduce the papules andpustules (inflammatory lesions) of acne. These medications should not be taken by children younger than 8 years of age because they can affect growth and stain teeth. They should also not be taken by a woman who is pregnant or breast feeding. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, tetracyclines can affect the development of the child’s bones and teeth, leading to skeletal defects.

A typical tetracycline regimen for treating moderate to severe acne starts with a dose of 500 to 1000 milligrams a day, which is decreased as improvement occurs. Long-term, low-dose tetracycline therapy may be continued for many months to suppress acne. Higher doses may be prescribed for very severe acne.

Two synthetic derivatives of tetracycline used to treat acne aredoxycycline and minocycline. Doxycycline proves especially effective in treating inflammatory acne. It can cause sun sensitivity in some patients. Minocyline has a long history of use in treating acne. It is often effective in treating acne that has not responded to other oral antibiotics. Minocycline also seems to produce fewer incidents of antibiotic resistance.

Oral Contraceptives

Oral contraceptives have been shown to effectively clear acne in women by suppressing the overactive sebaceous glands and can be used as long-term acne therapy. However, oral contraceptives should not be prescribed to women who smoke, have a blood-clotting disorder, are older than 35 or have a history of migraine headaches—without the advice of a gynecologist.

Topical Antimicrobials

Topical antimicrobials work to inhibit the P. acnes populations and are used to treat patients with mild to moderately severe inflammatory acne. They may be used alone or combined with a medication that works on another factor that leads to acne aside from P. acnes. A dermatologist can determine whether a topical antimicrobial is appropriate for a patient and if so which topical antimicrobial should be prescribed. Prescription topical antimicrobials used to treat acne vulgarisin the United States include:

• Azelaic acid. Naturally occurring in the skin, azelaic acid is used to treat mild to moderate inflammatory and non-inflammatory acne. It is believed that azelaic acid clears acne by reducing the populations of P. acnes, decreasing the abnormal shedding of skin cells and reducing inflammation. This medication has also proven effective in treating the dark spots that develop in some acne patients with skin of color. Azaleic acid is well tolerated by most people and can be safely used for years. Side effects may include skin dryness and lightening of the skin where applied.
   
• Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide works by killing P. acnes. However, it does not have anti-inflammatory abilities. It is available in a wide range of strengths and can be found as a gel, lotion, cleanser, cream and wash. Many acne preparations include benzoyl peroxide because research shows that benzoyl peroxide increases the effectiveness of some medicines, such as erythromycin and clindamycin. When used in combination with antibiotics, benzoyl peroxide also reduces the likelihood of a patient developing resistance to the antibiotic. The most common side effects are skin irritation, the potential to bleach hair and fabrics as well as possible allergic reaction.
   
• Clindamycin. A semi-synthetic antibiotic, topical clindamycin has a long history of successfully treating acne. It works by reducing P. acnes and decreasing inflammation. In topical form, clindamycin has proven safe and is well tolerated. Skin dryness and irritation are possible side effects. It is important to use as directed to decrease bacterial resistance that can occur with antibiotic use.
   
• Erythromycin. This topical antibiotic is active against a broad spectrum of bacteria, including P. acnes. Topical erythromycin, which is an antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory, is used primarily to treat acne. When topical erthyromycin is combined with benzoyl peroxide, the combination proves to be quite effective as the patient gets the effects of two antimicrobial agents. Like topical clindamycin, erythromycin may cause skin dryness and possible irritation. It is important to use as directed to decrease bacterial resistance that can occur with antibiotic use.
   
• Sodium sulfacetamide. A topical antibiotic that inhibits P. acnes and opens clogged pores, sodium sulfacetamide is effective in treating inflammatory acne. Many products containing sodium sulfacetamide include sulfur. Some patients do not like the smell of the sulfur or its grittiness. Usually, the newer products that contain sulfur do not have these problems.

Topical Retinoids

Prescribed to treat acne ranging from mild to moderately severe, topical retinoidsare a derivative of vitamin A and considered a cornerstone in acne treatment. Retinoids work to unclog pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from forming. Topical retinoids can irritate the skin and increase sun sensitivity so it is important to use sun protection and follow the dermatologist’s directions to maximize effectiveness. An added benefit in using topical retinoids is that they may help diminish the signs of aging, such as fine lines and wrinkles. Topical retinoids currently prescribed for acne treatment in the United States include:

• Adapalene. A synthetic retinoid applied as a gel or cream, adapalene unclogs pores and possesses moderate to potent anti-inflammatory abilities. Improvement is usually seen in 8 to 12 weeks. Side effects include minor skin irritation and dryness.
   
• Tazarotene. A synthetic retinoid available as a gel or cream, it works to keep the skin’s pores clear and has proven effective in treating acne. This medication should not be used by women who are pregnant, and effective contraception is needed while taking tazarotene because the medication has produced birth defects in animals. Skin irritation is a possible side effect.
   
• Tretinoin. The first retinoid developed for topical use, tretinoin is a natural retinoid. It works to gradually unclog pores and keep them unplugged. In the past, many patients found tretinoin too harsh for their skin; however, the newer forms are proving less irritating. Side effects include redness, scaling, dryness, itching and burning. If these occur, talk with the dermatologist who prescribed tretinoin as these side effects can be managed by adjusting the amount applied and when it is applied.

Reference:

Thiboutot, D. “New Treatments and Therapeutic Strategies for Acne.” Archives of Family Medicine 2000: 9:179-187.