Topical acne treatments can cause skin to become irritated, red and inflamed. For severe or stubborn acne, your dermatologist may prescribe an oral acne treatment. Some dermatologists may recommend using an oral medicine in conjunction with a non-irritating topical acne medication, depending on your skin type and skin condition, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Antibiotics
Your dermatologist may prescribe certain antibiotics to treat and attack acne. Antibiotics are generally prescribed for moderate to severe acne, according to the Mayo Clinic. They will aid in fighting inflammation and reducing bacteria. The Mayo Clinic states that oral antibiotics are often combined with a topical medication, which you apply to your skin. Side effects associated with oral antibiotics include dizziness, upset stomach and skin discoloration. These type of antibiotics increase your skin's sensitivity to sunlight and also reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.
Isotretinoin
In some cases, such as deep cysts, antibiotics may not be powerful enough to treat your skin condition. Isotretinoin is a potent medication which treats acne that doesn't respond to other remedies and for cystic scarring. Isotretinoin is so powerful, that it is only used to treat the most severe types of acne. Serious side effects accompany isotretinoin such as depression, suicidal behavior, increased cholesterol levels, hearing impairment, birth defects and nose bleeds. Patients who take this drug are closely monitored by their dermatologist due to the side effect risks.
Oral Contraceptives
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved certain oral contraceptives to treat acne in addition to preventing pregnancy, such as Ortho-Tricyclen. Oral contraceptives are only used to treat acne in women who are of age to take such a prescription. Depending upon the type of birth control pill used, age limits vary, but some can be taken as young as 14 years old. According to the Mayo Clinic, side effects can include breast tenderness, headaches, depression and nausea.
Other Treatment Options
Aside from oral acne treatments, your dermatologist may prescribe additional medications to help treat your acne to use with the oral medications. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, topical antibiotics can also treat your acne, such as clindamycin or erythromycin. These types of topical antibiotics treat acne by reducing inflammation and contain antimicrobials. Retinoids may also be prescribed by your dermatologist. Retinoids affect your skin's sensitivity to sunlight, so it's imperative you take extra precautions when going into the sun, such as limiting your amount of sun exposure or wearing protective items such as hats or sunscreen.
Seeking Care
During your office visit with your dermatologist, address any questions you may have and explain any concerns that might arise. If you've already tried a variety of treatment options, let your dermatologist know so that he can recommend a different path of treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic, untreated acne can leave behind unwanted scars, if it is severe enough. Don't let your acne get to that point.
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