for eMaxHealthWhat is the best treatment for acne?
Over the counter medications, such as Clearasil, may be helpful for mild acne, but they are of little use for those with significant disease. Depending on an individual s particular situation, there are a variety of medications that may help including:
Benzoyl peroxides, which can be purchased without a prescription, kill bacteria butand promote a mild degree of skin irritation. This product is available as bar soap, liquid wash, cream lotion and gel.
Topical antibiotics such as the sulfa drugs erythromycin and clindamycin are not available without a prescription. These products benefit people with mild to moderate disease acne and usually do not produce side effects.
Azeolic acid , applied to the skin once or twice daily, is safe and effective for mild acne. However, it can bleach the skin in persons with pigmented skin.
Oral antibiotics are effective for moderate to severe acne. However, some studies have shown that their use in patients taking oral contraceptives can cause the birth control pill to fail. Those who have known allergies to specific antibiotics should inform their physician.
Retinoids are a derivative of Vitamin A. derivative. The topical form (RetinA, Differin or Avita) is used for patients with mild to moderate acne. The oral form (Accutane) is prescribed for severe, disfiguring acne, and, in select cases, is the only medication that helps. Its disadvantages include sun sensitivity and the drug s capacityits potential to cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy.
Hormonal therapy, consisting of oral hormones containing less progesterone, may be helpful in women with acne, especially those with irregular periods or excess body hair.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. For additional written health information, please contact the Health Information Center at the Cleveland Clinic (216) 444-3771 or toll-free (800) 223-2273 extension 43771 or visit www.clevelandclinic.org/health/ . This document was last reviewed on: 4/19/2002
The Cleveland Clinic 2004
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