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PRESCRIPTION ACNE MEDICATIONS

Acne prescription medications are a common treatment option for those with moderate to severe cases of acne. These medications are typically prescribed by a dermatologist or Skin Physician and can come in the form of topical creams, gels, or oral medications. Topical medications such as retinoids and benzoyl peroxide work by unclogging pores and reducing inflammation, while oral medications such as antibiotics and isotretinoin target the bacteria that cause acne and help regulate oil production. Prescription acne medications can be highly effective, but they also come with potential side effects, so it's important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully and report any adverse reactions. Additionally, some prescription acne medications, like isotretinoin, can have serious potential side effects and require regular monitoring by one of our physicians. 

Types of Acne Medications 

Topical Creams

  1. Topical antibiotics: These medications, such as clindamycin and erythromycin, are applied to the skin to kill the bacteria that cause acne.

  2. Topical retinoids: These medications, such as tretinoin, adapalene, and tazarotene, help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation.

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Oral Medications

  1. Antibiotics - such as tetracycline, doxycycline, and minocycline, which work by killing acne-causing bacteria and reducing inflammation.

  2. Hormonal treatments - such as birth control pills or spironolactone, which can help regulate hormone levels that contribute to acne.

  3. Isotretinoin - a powerful medication that can effectively treat severe acne but can have serious side effects. It works by reducing the

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Over the Counter Meds

  1. Benzoyl peroxide: This medication works by killing the bacteria that cause acne and reducing inflammation. 

  2. Salicylic acid: This medication helps to unclog pores and exfoliate the skin. 

  3. Sulfur: This medication has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help to treat acne. treatments.

  4. Retinoids: These medications help to unclog pores and reduce inflammation. 

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