Digi Bits

Monday, October 17, 2005

Off Label Prescription Drugs for Acne

Acne is the most common skin disorder affecting millions of people each year. Acne usually affects teenagers due to hormones that over produce oil in the oil glands of pores in the face. These pores get clogged with the oil causing infection by bacteria that feed off it. The end result is pimples.

There are many treatments available to combat pimples. Many over the counter treatments are extremely effective; however people that suffer from moderate to severe acne usually see little affect from these over the counter remedies.

Most severe acne suffers consult their dermatologist for the best ways to treat their acne. Sometimes a dermatologist may choose to treat acne with an off label medication. An off label medication is a safe prescription medicine that has shown to be effective in treating acne but was not originally prescribed for that specific purpose. Two off label drugs are antibiotics and birth control.

Birth control is a safe and effective way to control the hormones that ask the sebaceous glands to overproduce oil. Most women who have severe acne, use birth control to help keep their acne at bay. It has been shown to be safe and effective from break outs and most sufferers are pleased with the results. However if you are trying to start a family then this is not an option.

Antibiotics are other drugs that weren’t originally intended for the use of acne. However, pimples are caused by bacteria underneath the skin and if your skin doesn’t have any harmful bacteria, you will have less pimples. Antibiotic are also safe and effective in the treatment of acne, but can not be used long term due to the fact that they may cause resistance.

If you have any questions regarding acne or off label drugs, please consult with your physician.