At one time or another in our lives we have caught a bug or two and have had to take antibiotics. Whether it was an ear infection or bacterial bronchitis, antibiotics were needed to conquer the infection. When speaking of acne, we often think of topical creams, lotions and potions applied to the outside of the skin, but now we will answer the question about antibiotics for acne, and are they effective for healing acne.
Antibiotics are used to kill bacteria, fungus, and parasites, but not viruses; hence the reason why antibiotics are never prescribed for sore throats, colds, and flus. The bacteria P.acnes causes the inflammation of the cell walls of the skin which are overrun with bacterial growth. The antibiotics work by reducing the number of P. acnes cells which, reduces the inflammatory response of the skin and surrounding cells.
Broad spectrum antibiotics are used to treat a wide range of bacteria, and are usually used to treat acne. Erythromycin, tetracycline, and related medications called derivatives are the usual prescription for acne.
Tetracycline is the most frequently prescribed antibiotic for acne. The starting dose is usually 500 mg twice per day until acne begins to disappear. Erythromycin is typically prescribed at 250-500 mg twice per day and can be used for pregnant women whereas tetracycline is not indicated for this group of acne sufferers.
Antibiotics have the potential to become a long-term treatment for some sufferers of severe acne. Depending on the type of person taking the medication, this in itself may be a detractor for using antibiotics. An individual also can become resistant to the medication after long-term use and experience rebound breakouts that are more severe than ever. In these cases, a change in prescription is needed and the search will begin for a new antibiotic that will effectively conquer the tide of acne breakouts.
For women, all antibiotics have the potential to cause yeast infections, especially using tetracycline and makes using antibiotics less attractive, but this is something that can be easily treated with a couple of glasses of cranberry juice, and can contribute nutrition needs.
There you have it; antibiotics for acne are effective for healing acne. It is essential that a physician or dermatologist be consulted in these matters to find the best antibiotic for your particular case. Being acne free is a dream for some people who have suffered from acne since adolescence. Antibiotics for acne are a great way to start on the road to obtaining a clear complexion.
