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Prescription Treatments

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If your acne does not seem to be phased by over-the-counter products, it might be time to visit your doctor or dermatologist who can prescribe a more intense treatment.

• Antibiotics: A wide range of antibiotics has been used as a treatment for more moderate to severe acne for some time. Unlike some of the over-the-counter products, antibiotics help reduce inflammation. Some commonly prescribed antibiotics include Erythromycin and Tetracycline. There are some disadvantages and side effects with this type of treatment. Erythromycin commonly causes stomach irritation and Tetracycline can be harmful to children of pregnant and breast feeding women. Also, the continued use of an antibiotic can cause bacteria to become resistant and therefore would no longer help control the acne.
• Oral Contraceptives: For many women oral contraceptives have been shown to clear up moderate to severe acne. These women are most likely suffering acne from an excess production of hormones which birth control pills help regulate. Lately, you might have seen several contraceptive commercials claiming to help with acne and for some women they do, but it varies from person to person. Also, contraceptives should not be prescribed to women who smoke, are over 35, or suffer from migraines without first consulting a gynecologist due to possible side effects.
• Accutane (Isotretinoin): Isotretinoin is sometimes the only thing that works for those who suffer from severe cystic acne. Many people consider Accutane as a lifesaver and other see it as a dangerous, last resort option. On the plus side, it has worked in cases where the acne was resistant to every other treatment. It helps prevents scarring and for many completely clears up acne in only one round of 15-20 treatments. On the flip side, it can be very dangerous for women who might be pregnant. Because it can cause serious birth defects women who choose to use Isotretinoin must be very careful to not get pregnant during treatment. It is recommended that women use two forms of birth control for one month before, during, and one month after treatment and it is necessary to be cleared by a doctor before attempting to conceive. Also, there are some who feel that Isotretinoin can cause mood changes although there is no known relation between Isotretinoin and suicide. There is a whole host of other possible side effects to consider with your doctor before opting to use Isotretinoin.

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