4 Drugs That Dermatologists Prescribe To Treat Acne

Blog

Acne frequently develops in adolescence, but some people struggle with this condition throughout their adult lives. Many acne sufferers use topical medications to treat their blemishes. However, creams and ointments alone may not be enough to relieve your condition. Fortunately, dermatologists can prescribe alternate medications to help people who suffer from moderate to severe acne. Here are four drugs your dermatologist might prescribe: 

1. Birth Control Pills

Birth control pills are a type of oral contraceptive. These pills work by altering the level of reproductive hormones in a woman's body. Many women suffer from hormonal acne that is tied to their menstrual cycle. Regulating your hormones through the use of birth control pills can help you find relief from hormonal acne. Dermatologists are medical doctors who can prescribe birth control pills for skincare purposes.

2. Spironolactone

Spironolactone is an androgen blocker that is commonly used to treat hypertension. It reduces the level of androgens, a type of hormone, in a person's body. Hormonal acne can be caused by elevated levels of testosterone in men and women. This type of acne is often characterized by blemishes on a person's lower face. Spironolactone can help you get your hormones under control, which can eradicate acne on your chin and jaw area.

3. Antibiotics

Acne is caused by bacteria that get into your pores and cause an infection. Washing your face regularly can reduce bacteria levels on the surface of your skin. However, people with severe acne may need additional assistance. Your dermatologist may prescribe antibiotics for a short time. A course of antibiotics will eliminate bacteria from your system, which will allow your skin to heal. Antibiotics have some drawbacks, but your dermatologist will take these into account when deciding whether or not antibiotics are right for you.

4. Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is frequently prescribed for people with severe acne that does not respond to other treatments. Isotretinoin is a medication derived from vitamin A. It's used to permanently decrease sebum production in a person's skin. Most people who undergo isotretinoin therapy find that their acne is completely eradicated and does not return. However, isotretinoin can be hard on the body, so your dermatologist will want to monitor your health during treatment. This will be accomplished through regular blood tests. Women who undergo this therapy are often placed on birth control as well since isotretinoin can increase the risk of birth defects during use.

For more information, contact a dermatologist.

Share

15 December 2020

Never Ignore an Unusual Skin Change

When I was a teenager, I loved sunbathing to keep a golden tan. My family had no history of skin cancer, so I thought my skin was "invincible" to sun damage. Years later, as an adult, I noticed an unusual patch of skin on my arm. I had no idea what it was, but thankfully, I made an appointment with my GP to get it checked out. She referred me to a dermatologist who diagnosed me with very early stage skin cancer that could be treatable with a simple cream. I was very lucky that the cream worked, but if I had waited to visit the dermatologist until my skin cancer was more advanced, I would have had to have surgery to remove it. I decided to start a blog to share my story and post tips about skin health. Please come back often and learn more about skin!