Antibiotics for Acne

Should you use an antibiotic to treat acne?

For persistent cases of acne that do not respond to topical treatments, antibiotics can be an effective alternative acne remedy. The drawback to using antibiotics for acne is they must be prescribed by a doctor. An antibiotic is a prescription drug that kills bacterial proteins from the inside out while inhibiting bacterial growth.

Antibiotics are often a preferred treatment for numerous bacterial disorders including acne. However, antibiotics cannot differentiate between bacterial proteins and cellular proteins that are part of the body cells. And this is what causes the negative effects of antibiotics, commonly known as side effects.

Tetracycline is the most common antibiotic for acne. It is a broad spectrum antibiotic and also the least expensive. Tetracycline and its derivative, Doxycycline, are taken on an empty stomach or at least two to three hours after meals as food restricts absorption of the drug. Minocycline, another tetracycline derivative, on the other hand is easily absorbed and can be taken with food.

Tetracycline has the least side effects. But over time, there has been an increased antibiotic resistance towards the drug and it does not seem to work as well these days. This necessitated the development of its derivatives. Doxycycline makes the skin sensitive to sun requiring sun protection every time you go out. Both the derivatives also tend to cause gastrointestinal problems.

Erythromycin is a microlide antibiotic with an antimicrobial spectrum that is wider than that of penicillin. It acts on the protein synthesis of bacteria and slows bacterial growth. The gastrointestinal upsets like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain that it can cause are extremely disturbing.

Taken over long periods some antibiotics may cause toxicity including liver toxicity. These antibiotics should also not be ingested during pregnancy. Some antihistamines and antacids may interact with other antibiotics making it imperative to consult a doctor. On the other hand, herbal antibiotics such as garlic, aloe and fruit based mild acids do not have any side effects.

Acne affects two third of all adolescents one time or the other and a considerable proportion of adults as well. An oily skin or a bacterial invasion on a sensitive area is the main causes behind the outbreak. Topical creams do not have the same effect on every one due to difference in types of skin. The urgency for seeking treatment is obvious since if not capped immediately, the infection can spread over a larger area.

Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin. The approach to acne treatment may either be direct or indirect. Topical ointments and drugs form the major part of the direct treatment modalities. There is a strong belief that the hormonal changes that occur at puberty are responsible for occurrence of acne.

When the level of testosterone increases the body secretes hormone like substances to fight the inflammation caused by it. Immune system health and acne are thus interrelated and a strong immune system can effectively prevent acne. A healthy lifestyle that avoids junk food, regular exercise and herbs for strengthening immune system are natural means of preventing and fighting acne.

Article courtesy of Native Remedies