There are many prescription drugs for acne. However, each drug has
its own idiosyncracies so it is important for a patient to work
closely with his dermatologist in order to minimize any negative
effects.
Adapalene is one acne drug, a gel which is known under the brand
name of Differin. This drug reduces the pace at which skin cells
build up within the hair follicle, thus minimizing the clogging
of pores. However, patients taking Differin must avoid being
exposed to sunlight to minimize side effects.
Azelaic acid is another acne prescription drug. This cream is
manufactured using the brand name Azelex. Azelaic acid is believed
to eliminate the bacteria P. Acnes which causes acne.
It is also perceived to assist in rejuvenating the skin at a
faster rate while stopping the buildup of cells which can clog
pores. This cuts down on pimple and blackhead formation.
Side effects consist of tingling, stinging, burning and itching
sensations.
The third acne drug on this list is the anti-bacterial agent
Benzoyl peroxide. Benzoyl peroxide is sold as both
over-the-counter and prescription preparations. It is known to
eliminate P. acnes while providing a gentle drying and peeling
effect that is believed to cut down on breakouts.
However, around 30% of people may show allergic reactions to this
product such as skin inflammations or severe crusting.
The fourth prescription drug is the antibiotic Clindamycin.
This medication that also destroys P. Acnes can be bought as a
lotion, gel or as a solution which is usually applied twice a day.
Side effects in around 10% of people showed up as dryness,
redness, peeling, itching and burning.
However, some cases of inflammation of the colon, bloody diarrhea,
and diarrhea have also been noted.
Another antibiotic is Erythromycin. Consult your dermatologist
about using other products on your skin in conjunction with
erythromycin applications because this might be too irritating.
Accutane is the brand name of the vitamin A derivative
isotretinoin. It is consumed as a pill for 15 to 20 weeks
specifically for cases of severe nodular acne which cannot be
addressed by other forms of treatment. However, Accutane is
contraindicated in pregnant women due to the significantly high
risk of infant deformities.
The oral antibiotics doxycycline, minocycline, and tetracycline
are also used to treat acne. These drugs help cut down on the
growth of the P. Acnes bacteria from the inside out. In addition,
Tetracycline is used for its anti-inflammatory effect.
Birth control pills are used to treat acne as well. Ortho
Tri-Cyclen, a popular pill, is known to decrease amounts of
testosterone in women which in turn cuts down on breakouts.
The downside is that there are many side effects experienced with
use of birth control pills.
The sulfonamide Sodium Sulfacetamide is employed for its
antibacterial effect on the skin. However, deaths have been
recorded in reaction to sulfonamide use. Other less severe side
effects are burning, stinging, and irritation.
The gel Tazorac contains the vitamin A derivative tazorotene.
Research showed 50% less lesion counts after 12 weeks of usage.
Like Accutane, it should not be prescribed to pregnant women to
avoid fetal deformities.
The drug Tretinoin is actually a combination of vitamin A acid
and retinoic acid. It is produced in liquid, gel, and cream form
for application on the skin. It is popularly used to treat
wrinkles or sun-damaged skin as well as acne.
