Oral acne medications are intended to produce the same results as topical acne creams, but usually are reserved for the most severe cases of acne, according to the Mayo Clinic. Oral acne medications reduce oil production, kill the bacteria that causes acne and reduce inflammation. There are a variety of oral treatments used for acne, although pregnant women should not use them, especially in the first trimester.
Isotretinoin
Sold under the brand name Accutane, isotretinoin is a powerful drug that's used to treat deep cysts that don't respond to traditional topical treatments. It works by supplying the body with mega-doses of vitamin A, report doctors at the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. Pregnant women should avoid taking the drug because it has been shown to produce birth defects, report Mayo Clinic doctors. The drug has serious side effects and patients must be monitored closely while taking the drug. Isotretinoin can cause liver problems, raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels, cause itching, dry eyes, nosebleeds, sun sensitivity and muscle aches. The acne treatment also has been associated with an increased risk of depression.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are commonly prescribed to treat acne to kill bacterial infections. While antibiotics also can reduce inflammation, they can lead to a resistance, which is why they typically are used only for a short period of time, no longer than 30 days. As soon as improvement is seen, the antibiotics usually are discontinued. Antibiotics often are used in conjunction with topical medications to increase the drying of acne. Side effects of antibiotics include sun sensitivity, dizziness, upset stomach and skin discoloration.
Oral Contraceptives
Many women are prescribed oral contraceptives to treat acne. Drugs that contain norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol are especially effective in clearing up persistent acne that doesn't respond to topical creams. Birth control pills work by reducing the amount of sebum in the body. Sebum is the natural substance in the body that lubricates the skin and hair. It is an oily material that can clog pores when it builds up around the hair follicles. Acne breakouts occur when the clogged pores rupture and spread, causing even more dead skin cells and oil to accumulate. Oral contraceptives can cause heart disease, blood clots and high blood pressure. Other side effects can include nausea, breast tenderness and headaches. Oral contraceptives can also lead to depression.
Other Drugs
Other drugs that can help to treat oily breakouts that result in acne include oral retinoids used to dry out the skin. Retinoids decrease the amount of oil the body produces in order to prevent pores from becoming clogged and breaking out. The pain and swelling of severe acne sometimes is treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce swelling and ease the discomfort.
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