What Are The Common Prescription Acne Medications?

Azelaic Acid

Azelaic acid seems to be a common acne treatment. Although individuals may get azelaic acid over-the-counter in some areas, strong versions still appear to require a prescription. This medication should help reduce sebum production. Thus, a patient's skin should not be as oily. Azelaic acid also appears to have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. It may stop skin cells from becoming trapped in hair follicles and blocking the sebaceous glands. This seems to be helpful, since this process can trigger the formation of acne.

Most patients appear to use this medication as a cream. However, it also seems to be available as a foam. Patients may use the foam because it is easier to apply. This medication also appears as a facial peel. These patients may have a facial peel every two weeks for three months.

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Spironolactone

Spironolactone may be used as a high blood pressure medication. It also appears to treat heart, kidney, and liver problems. Recent research seems to indicate that this medication also helps treat hormonal acne. However, this may only be an 'off-label' use. The medication may reduce certain hormones in the body. It seems to be particularly effective at reducing androgen hormones such as testosterone. This may help with acne because excessive amounts of these hormones seem to be a major cause of it.

Unfortunately, men may not always be able to take this medication because of its effects on testosterone. If they are approved to take it, doctors may have to add extra monitoring. Pregnant women also seem to need to avoid this medication as well. Patients who do take it should be prepared to urinate more often. The reason may be that this medication also appears to be a diuretic.

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