Prescription Acne Medication Can Have Some Side Effects

When acne rears its bumpy head, most people will try almost everything to control the problem. There are various over-the-counter topical creams and lotions on the market that can work wonders for those with mild acne flare-ups, but those with serious acne problems may seek a stronger yet possibly riskier solution. Sometimes when someone who suffers from acne sees no alternative, they’ll consider taking prescription acne medication.

There is a variety of prescription acne medication out on the market today that is widely used by teenagers and adults alike. They can also be topical creams, gels, lotions, or they can come in pill form. Here are a few of the options you can choose from when looking into prescription acne medication, and most have side effects:

• Adapalene—this is a gel that is applied to the skin once a day. This prescription acne medication prevents pores from clogging by slowing down the accumulation of dead skin cells. Side effects include redness, scaling, burning and itchiness. This occurs for up to 40 percent of users.
• Azelaic Acid—is also a gel that is applied twice daily. This prescription acne medication claims to renew the skin quickly and therefore prevents dead skin cells from clogging the pores. It is also supposed to kill acne-causing bacteria. Side effects like itching, stinging and burning happen to about 5 percent of users.
• Clindamycin—this prescription acne medication is an antibiotic that comes in a gel or lotion and is applied twice daily. It is said to kill acne-causing bacteria. Side effects include burning, peeling, and in serious cases, bloody diarrhea and inflammation of the colon have been reported.
• Erythromycin—also an antibiotic that comes in gel or ointment form. This prescription acne medication is applied twice daily. This product claims to prevent bacteria from growing. Side effects are burning, skin irritation, dryness or oiliness.
• Isotretinoin—a very popular prescription acne medication, this is a derivative of vitamin A and taken in pill form. Users must take this prescription acne medication for 15 to 20 weeks and it is prescribed in cases of severe nodular acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments. This pill is supposed to reduce the amount of oil production coming from the oil glands. Side effects for this prescription acne medication are numerous and potentially dangerous. This prescription acne medication can possibly cause depression, mood swings, tooth discoloration, headaches, a decrease in hearing and suicidal tendencies.