Prescription acne medications might be necessary to control acne in some cases. Accutane is a very serious acne treatment that acts by interfering with the cells that actually produce skin oil. In several studies it has been able to cut oil production by 80%. Unfortunately, because Accutane is taken internally, it affects many other cells in the body. It often will cause mucosal surfaces to become dry, cracked and even to bleed. This includes lips, mouth, eyes, vaginal, and urinary tract linings.
Accutane has caused significant birth defects during pregnancy from taking only one dose! For this reason, the FDA mandates that pregnancy testing be done for any female of childbearing age before starting usage of Accutane and at intervals during usage.
Accutane can also have significant harmful effects on the liver, and liver function tests must be done monthly while taking the drug. These tests, along with visits to the doctor's office and the cost of the drug itself, may cost $400-$1200 for 2-3 months use. Even with all of these negative effects, Accutane is still useful for some patients to control the worst cases of acne and to prevent deep scarring.
Retin A is chemically similar to Accutane but is used topically on the skin for acne treatment and also to repair sun damage. It does not involve the same degree of health concerns but it still has troublesome side effects such as irritation, itching, redness, and flaking of the skin area where used. It also requires a prescription but can be useful in treating some cases of acne.
Antibiotics taken orally may be of great benefit when taken for 2-3 weeks to control serious pustular acne breakouts. They should not be taken continuously for long periods. Topically applied antibiotics such as Cleocin Tea or erythromycin liquids are almost sure to cause a development of resistant bacteria on the skin that will make acne control more difficult.
Prescription acne remedies have a place in acne treatment for some cases. They are costly, always have side effects, and should be used only when less drastic measures have not been successful in controlling acne.
Fortunately, the Reversion Acne Control System is very effective in controlling the majority of acne problems in nearly all patients and is able to do this in the least costly way. |
