Oral acne medicationsare typically prescribed when topical medications fail to clear or control acne.
These drugs may be used on their own but are more commonly used in combination with topical treatments.
Prescription oral acne medications include certain antibiotics,hormonal contraceptives, isotretinoin, and Aldactone (spironolactone).
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When acne resists topical treatment, oral drugs may be prescribed to treat the underlying causes of outbreaks.
Some of these drugs are taken daily, while others require several doses a day.
Oral acne medications are typically recommended for moderate to severe refractory acne (treatment-resistant acne).
This includessevere types of acnesuch ascystic acneornodular acne.
Even if your acne isn’t particularly severe, it can be stubborn and benefit from oral treatment.
Speak with yourdermatologistabout the benefits and risks to make an informed choice.
In most cases, the lowest effective dose is prescribed to reduce the risk of side effects.
All oral acne medications are by prescription only.
There are no over-the-counter alternatives.
A severe and potentially dangerous allergic reaction, calledanaphylaxis, can also sometimes occur.
The dual approach greatly reduces the risk of drug resistance.
Moreover, antibiotics for acne should be used for no longer than three to six months.
These includeOrtho Tri-Cyclenand Beyaz.
Most dermatologists will prescribe topical acne medication to use alongside oral contraceptives.
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is often the first-line option when topical acne treatments fail.
It is by far considered the best treatment for severe acne.
Isotretinoin works by shrinking small glands in the skin, calledsebaceous glands, that produce oil.
This reduces the blockage of pores that can lead tocomedones(blackheads and whiteheads).
When pores aren’t blocked, fewer pimples will result.
Anaphylaxis is rare but can occur.
Pregnancy Risks
Isotretinoin is not used duringpregnancydue to the high risk of birth defects.
If you become pregnant while taking isotretinoin, stop taking the drug immediately.
Use condoms and other methods of birth control while taking isotretinoin to avoid pregnancy.
Do not breastfeed while taking isotretinoin.
Anti-Androgens
Aldactone (spironolactone) is another oral drug that treats acne by suppressing androgens.
Aldactone isn’t commonly used and is not a first-line acne treatment choice.
However, it may be appropriate for some who cannot tolerate or take oral contraceptives.
It can also do double duty as a prescribed treatment for high blood pressure and heart failure.
Aldactone should not be used if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Since this medication blocks androgens, it can cause defects in thegenitals and reproductive systemof male babies.
These are commonly used with topical acne creams and ointments to treat acne directly and from within.
These include oral antibiotics, oral contraceptives, isotretinoin, and Aldactone (spironolactone).
Oral contraceptives and Aldactone are used for acne related to the menstrual cycle.
Speak with your dermatologist to understand the benefits, risks, and proper use of any oral acne medication.
Some like isotretinoin and Aldactone can be hazardous if you become pregnant.
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