Quite a large of number of medicines is available these days for treating acne. Medicines containing benzoyl peroxide are available over-the-counter for this purpose. Other common medicines for treating acne include Acanya gel, Azelex, Benzaclin, Benzamycin, Brevoxyl Creamy Wash, Clenziderm M.D. gel, Cleocin, Doryx, Doxycycline, Adapalene gel and Epiduo gel. Some physicians prescribe Accutane, which contains isotretinoin, for treating severe forms of acne. This medicine is said to have severe side effects. Doctors advise that it should be taken under close supervision only. Therefore, visiting a dermatologist for acne problems will always be helpful. However, in mild cases of acne, over-the-counter (OTC) products are thought to be effective.
Benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol and salicylic acid are some of the typical OTC medicines available for treating mild acne. The Food and Drug Administration also has regulated acne treatments covering prescription and non-prescription medicines. The prescription medicines include benzoyl peroxide, certain antibiotics, dapsone, azelaic acid and retinoids. Retinoids are vitamin A derivatives. For the acne having moderate to severe inflammation, topical or oral medicines are prescribed. Sometimes physicians combine these two for quick and complete recovery. This varies from case to case. However, you should visit a dermatologist if you have nodules or cysts.
If you suffer with severe nodular acne, your doctor may prescribe isotretinoin, which is a vitamin A derivative. The brand names of this medicine in the market include Sotret, Accutane, Amnesteem and Claravis. This medicine is for oral administration, and prescribed for taking once or twice a day. The course of treatment with isotretinoin may last up to 15 weeks or more if required. This medicine works by reducing the size of oil glands and in turn the production of oil by these glands. The downside of isotretinoin is that is has serious side effects. Especially, if pregnant women are treated with isotretinoin, it can cause birth defects to the unborn baby. Therefore, pregnant women or women planning for pregnancy should inform their doctor about the same when they are prescribed isotretinoin. Women taking isotretinoin can plan for pregnancy only 30 days after completion of treatment with this medicine. It is also believed that isotretinoin products can cause mental health problems. The other side effects caused by isotretinoin include dry skin, mouth, nose, lips, or eyes; nosebleeds; itching; poor night vision; muscle aches; and changes in blood and liver function.
For blackheads, whiteheads and mild cases of acne, the best treatment could be with topical medicines. Salicylic acid, either alone or with SD Alcohol 40 provides effective treatment for the above types of acne. Sulfur also is helpful in wiping out blackheads and whiteheads. However, only sustained use of these medicines can give good results. These medicines also have certain common side effects such as burning sensation, irritation and swelling. Especially, if your skin is delicate you are prone to these side effects.
In conclusion, before starting a topical or oral medicine for treating acne, you should consult your doctor. It is always safe for you to avoid self-medication, as a procedural diagnosis is bypassed before treating your acne, whether it is mild, moderate or severe.