Acne medications heal existing acne lesions, stop new lesions from forming and prevent scarring. Many acne medications prevent future outbreaks of acne rather than treat current lesions, and may take eight weeks or more to be effective. In many cases, the skin gets worse before it begins to improve.

Acne medications are available in the form of topical treatments, such as gels and lotions, or oral pill form. They treat acne in five ways:

• Exfoliation and normalizing of skin cell production
• Elimination or reduction of the bacteria that cause acne
• Removal of materials that clog the pores
• Elimination or reduction of inflammation
• Reduction of sebum secretion

Acne medications are available with or without a prescription. Benzoyl peroxide is the most powerful over-the-counter acne medication. Prescription medications include topical retinoids (e.g., tretinoin) and antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin), oral retinoids (e.g., isotretinoin), oral antibiotics (e.g., tetracycline) and hormonal therapy (e.g., antiandrogens).

Topical acne treatments should not be used in the eyes, mouth, nostrils, mucous membranes, open wounds or on red or raw skin. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as eczema or gastrointestinal diseases, should talk with their physician before using certain acne medications.

The most common side effect of topical acne medications is skin irritation. Topical retinoids may increase the user’s susceptibility to sunburn. Isotretinoin is associated with numerous side effects, including severe birth defects when used during pregnancy. Other side effects of acne medications include headache, fatigue and abdominal pain.

Patients should consult their physician before taking any additional prescriptions, over-the-counter medications or supplements since many medications interact and may increase or decrease the potency of others.

Most acne medications do not have established dosages for children. Tetracyclines are not recommended for use in children under the age of 8 due to the possibility of permanent tooth discoloration in developing teeth. Acne medications are generally closely monitored when used by children or the elderly.