Drug treatment of acne

Abstract

Acne is a common skin disorder not just confined to adolescence. For patients with mild to moderate acne who have not responded to over-the-counter products, prescribing topical antibiotics and/or retinoids may be considered. For patients with moderate to severe acne, oral antibiotics or the contraceptive pill can be combined with topical benzoyl peroxide or a topical retinoid. For patients who present with severe acne nodules and cysts, or who have not responded to 12 weeks of oral antibiotics, referral to a dermatologist for oral isotretinoin is recommended. Once acne has cleared, 3-12 months or longer with a topical retinoid may help to prevent recurrence.