Acne Treatments: Prescription Medication

A number of people will try to treat their acne condition on

their own without consulting with a doctor. If you suffer

from any kind of unusual skin condition then it is always a

good idea to consult with a dermatologist. Even if your

skin condition turns out to be acne, a doctor will be able

to offer you valuable information and advice on how to treat

it.



In cases of severe acne, it is always best to seek out

treatment by a dermatologist who can prescribe the proper

medication. Prescription medication is also recommended

even for moderate forms of acne. They may be more effective

then trying to treat it yourself. For mild forms of acne,

they can often be treated using over-the-counter

medications.



Types Of Prescription Acne Medications



There are two main types of prescription acne medications

available: Topical and Oral. Topical prescription

medications may include ingredients such as retinoids and

zinc. Antibiotics can be taken as a lotion or orally, and

are often used to fight acne.



Antibiotics



Tetracycline is the most common antibiotic used for treating

acne. It reduces inflammation and is used to kill the

bacteria responsible for the acne. It may take several

weeks to a few months for antibiotic treatments to take

effect. This type of treatment must continue even after the

acne has cleared up. Common side effects that have been

associated with Tetracycline include an increase in

sensitivity to sun light. This may potentially cause a bad

sunburn should the patient dwell in the sun for too long of

a time. Various other side effects include hives, dizziness

and upset stomachs.



Children under the age of 12 and pregnant woman should not

take tetracycline because it may discolor growing teeth. It

is also important to note that women who take tetracycline

may suffer from increased incidences of vaginal yeast.



Ointments



Oral antibiotics may result in more complications than

antibiotic ointments. Antibiotic ointments are effective in

killing bacteria that causes acne. When they are used in

conjunction with other topical treatments like benzoyl

peroxide, the bacteria may not develop resistance to the

antibiotics.



Retinoids



Retinoids are derived from vitamin A. They can be found in

the form of creams and lotions and can be applied directly

onto the skin. Topical types of retinoid medications can

help to open up clogged pores. These medications can be

beneficial in treating whiteheads and blackheads. A common

side effect of topical retinoids is dry skin. Oral retinoids

can be beneficial in severe forms of acne that don't usually

respond to other types of treatments. This type of

treatment causes the body to produce less sebum which will

result in a reduced amount of oily skin. Oral retinoids

will also open up the pores by causing the upper layer of

skin to peel.



Anyone using oral retinoids should be fully aware of the

possible serious side effects that may occur:



1.) Pregnant mothers-to-be should be aware of the possible

dangers of birth defects. 2.) Women who are under retinoid

treatment should use two forms of birth control. 3.) May

also cause depression or liver damage.



It is very important to seek out regular medical attention

to avoid any complications that may arise during retinoid

treatments.



Other Medications



Birth control pills can also be an effective treatment for

acne in some women. They help change the hormone levels

within the body and reduce the acne causing effects of

testosterone. Zinc can be an effective treatment in some

cases and is a relatively new form of treatment.



Finally, it is very important to discuss with your

dermatologist about the best treatment for your particular

acne.



About The Author:



Susan Richards has written extensively on various health-

related issues such as acne and skin care treatments. You

can find more information on acne and skin care treatments at:

http://www.acne-skin-care-tips.com