Antibiotics for Acne
Having pimples is as natural as growing hair.
Teenagers, especially, are more prone
to zits due to their hormones being in a whirlwind of imbalance.
Regular cases manifest as a few
lesions on the face, upper chest, and back. Sometimes,
however, cases can get very severe and regular cleansing and acne treatment
will not be enough. This is when it
is prudent to have a check up with a dermatologist.
After an extensive examination, many
will probably go for their prescription pads and write you up for some
antibiotics. For acne, there are
several kinds available, and they can either be taken orally or applied
externally.
Let us first get into the topical variety, and of this
there are quite a few. The most
commonly prescribed topical antibiotic is called clindamycin, followed by
erythromycin. Not so common is the
use of tetracycline. Doctors
prescribe these usually when inflammation goes together with the acne.
By preventing the conversion of sebum
to fatty acids, and the relocation of immune cells, topical antibiotics
reduce inflammation. They also kill
propionibacteria acnes, the
bacteria which are the main reason for bad acne outbreaks.
Although side effects like dryness,
irritation, and in the case of tetracycline, yellowing of the skin are
associated with these treatments, they are prescribed to avoid stomach
problems and clashes with other medications.
Seldom do these creams and solutions produce bleeding, rashes, and
stomach problems, but if this is the case, another trip to the doctor will
be to your best interest.
For more widespread conditions where acne is found all
over the body, antibiotics of the oral variety may be prescribed.
While tetracycline is hardly used in
a topical agent, it is used most frequently among oral antibiotics. It is
the cheapest and works quite effectively for a majority of cases. The only
problem is its effect on teeth and bones. Pregnant
women and kids below eight years old are advised to stay away from the drug
as it could cause poor growth and stained teeth.
Tetracycline also has two offshoots.
The first is minocycline, which has
the same effects as its predecessor, but is less likely to be resistant to
bacterial immunity. Doxycycline is
the second, and is particularly effective in treating inflammations.
The only downside is it creates
stronger sensitivity to sunlight among patients.
Erythromycine is another antibiotic
unrelated to tetracycline, but it is also effective against acne bacteria.
It is commonly attributed however, to
gastrointestinal problems.
Whatever the medication prescribed, it is best to stick
with it for as long as the doctor suggests. Cystic
acne may last for as long as 6 months even with oral antibiotics.
Sometimes people complain that their
treatment didn’t work, but unfortunately, many also get impatient and
discontinue their meds before any real effect can be seen.
Doctors’ orders are very important,
especially when it comes to how your meds should be taken.
Many of these pills are taken on an
empty stomach, something that can be very difficult for some.
Also, try combining topical
antibiotics with a benzoyl peroxide product.
The dual effect can be very successful in killing and preventing
acne. More advice should be sought
from your dermatologist however, before proceeding with this plan.
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