Acne Treatments :: Accutane vs. Antibiotics

Is Accutane or Antibiotics safer for treatment of acne?

Acne is caused by an increased secretion of sebum by the oil glands in the skin. The increased production of sebum provokes inflammation, which on healing produces scars (keratinization).

Accutane or Isotretinoin reduces acne by reducing the secretion of sebum which consequently reduces the inflammation and keratinization.It is considered as one of the most powerful drugs used in the treatment of acne. It is a potent prescription medicine that should be taken under strict medical supervision.

Though considered as the most effective drug against severe acne, Accutane is found to cause certain serious side effects.Isotretinoin is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A which is found in the bloodstream of all people. Therefore, the simultaneous use of vitamin A and isotretinoin may lead to vitamin A side absorption problems. It can also lead to serious side effects if taken during pregnancy. Since it is found to cause congenital disorders, miscarriage and premature births women who have the chances of getting pregnant while taking Accutane must adopt effective birth control methods. Chapped lips, dry skin and itching, dryness of nose, mild nosebleed, joint pain, irritation of the eyelids and eyes, joint and muscle pains, temporary hair thinning, rashes, urinary symptoms, headache and psychiatric problems like depression, hallucination and suicidal behavior are common side effects of this drug. As Isoretinoin is a naturally occurring product, the body removes it from the bloodstream within nine to ten days of consumption and hence does not have long term effects. However, in low doses Accutane is found to be free of side effects. If taken according to prescription it is considered safer than other acne-controlling antibiotics which are effective only if used on a daily basis.

Clindamycin, Erythromycin, Tetracycline, Erythromycin, Trimethroprim are the topical antibiotics prescribed for the treatment of acne. They work by decreasing the number of bacteria in and around the follicles and by reducing the irritating chemicals produced by white blood cells. However, long term use of oral acne antibiotics can cause serious health problems as they destroy the friendly bacteria that live in the human intestine, producing a whole range of gastrointestinal diseases. Excessive use of acne antibiotics is found to be one of main causes of Leaky Gut Syndrome, a serious health problem which can disrupt all of the body's vital processes. Besides lessening the effectiveness of birth control pills, antibiotics can lead to candida vaginal yeast infections in women.

Nishana Nazimuddin

Hi-Tech Editorial Division