Acne is the term for plugged pores (blackheads and whiteheads), pimples, and even deeper lumps (cysts or nodules) that occur on the face, neck, chest, back, shoulders and even the upper arms. Acne affects most teenagers to some extent. However, the disease is not restricted to any age group; adults in their 20s - even into their 40s - can get acne. While not a life threatening condition, acne can be upsetting and disfiguring. When severe, acne can lead to serious and permanent scarring. Even less severe cases can lead to scarring. (from AcneNet)- Benzoyl Peroxide
- Tretinoin/Isotretinoin
- Cyproterone acetate, Ethinyl estradiol
- Adapalene
- Azelaic Acid
Benzoyl Peroxide
Benzoyl peroxide is an antibacterial drug. It releases free radical oxygen which oxidizes bacterial proteins in the sebaceous follicles thereby decreasing the number of anaerobic bacteria which cases the acne and, at the same time, may decrease irritating type free fatty acids.
Dosage:
This medicine should only be used once a day. An increase in dosage if needed only. Adverse effects may include drying or peeling of the skin. If this is the case, reduce the dosage. If there is stinging or burning sensation upon application, remove with water and soap. Treatment can be resumed the next day.
Important note: Do not use this medicine with tretinoin or similar products, as it will potentiate (or amplify) adverse effects of the drug.
Tretinoin/Isotretinoin
This drug is used to treat cystic acne which is unresponsive to conventional therapy (example: Benzoyl peroxide). Tretinoin is found to reduce sebaceous gland size and sebum production.
Adverse reactions such as inflammation and drying of skin, burning sensation on the affected area, inflammation of lips and photosensitivity can be observed.
Never couple the drug with carbamazepine as it will decrease its efficacy. Avoid vitamin A products during the course of the treatment. Vitamin A increases the toxicity of tretinoin. It may also interfere with medications used to treat hypertriglyceridemia.
Important note:
Never use this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, as it will induce abortion. Also use with caution if you have history of Diabetes mellitus and hypertriglyceridemia.
Cyproterone acetate, Ethinyl estradiol
They function as oral estrogen and should be given cyclically for short-term use. However, this drug should not be used when you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant.
This should be taken with caution when you have at least one of the following: hypertension, gallbladder disease, diabetes mellitus, heart failure, kidney or liver dysfunction or history of thromboembolic disease.
One percent of the population taking the said drug can experience the following symptoms during the initial course of medication:
- headache
- depression
- libido changes
- dizziness
- thromboembolic disorders
- hypertension
- nausea
- vomiting
- diarrhea
- anorexia
- changes in weight
- bloating
- changes in menstrual flow
- breakthrough bleeding
- intolerance to contact lenses
- leg cramps
Cyproterone acetate, ethinyl estradiol may decrease anticoagulant effects of oral anticoagulants and on the other hand, may enhance steroid effects of corticosteroids.
Smoking and drinking liquors may decrease the efficacy of the said drug.
Adapalene
This drug is primarily used in the treatment of acne vulgaris. For information about acne vulgaris, click here. It is a retinoid-like compound which is a modulator of cellular differentiation, keratinization and inflammatory processes, all of which represent important features in the pathology of acne vulgaris.
Dosage:
The treatment should be used on children above 12 years of age and adults. Medicine should be applied once daily before bedtime. Therapeutic results should be noticed after 8-12 weeks. May be used during pregnancy and lactation. This drug is used for external use only.
How to apply:
Apply with gloves in thin film at night to thoroughly clean or dry the skin. Avoid applying in areas near the eyes and mouth as it might irritate these areas. Do not apply occlusive dressings. Some may experience transient stinging or burning after application. If redness, burning sensation, drying and itchiness persists, report it immediately to your doctor.
Azelaic Acid
This drug has isotretinoin as a prototype. It is a naturally occuring dicarboxylic acid. This drug works to inhibit bacterial cellular protein synthesis. It possesses anti-microbial activity against Propionibacterium acnes and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Keratinization (darkening of skin) may be attributable to its clinical effectiveness.
Dosage:
The administration is similar to Adapalene. Apply thin film to clean or dry the area. Use this drug twice a day. Administration is topical. Wash hands before application. Do not use occlusive dressing. This drug comes in either a cream or a gel, so it is important to store it at room temperature between 15-30°C.
Important Note:
Do not use the drug if you are allergic to any of its components. This drug may worsen people with asthma. Adverse effects may include:
- Pruritus
- Burning
- Erythema (redness)
- Dryness
- Rash Peeling
- Irritation
- Vitiligo pigmentation (cautious use in people with dark complexion)
- Hypertrichosis
--------
Well, that's it for the anti-acne drugs. If you have any questions, just contact me through comments, and i will try to answer them to the best of my abilities.
-------
For antiseptic drugs, click here.
