Acne Medicine: Care Instructions
Overview
Medicines can help acne. They can clean skin pores, kill bacteria, and reduce skin oil. And they can reduce
the effects of hormones. The type of medicine you take depends on the type of acne you have.
The best treatment often is a mix of medicines. For example, you might take pills and put medicine on your
skin.
Common acne medicines include:
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Benzoyl peroxide. This includes Benzac or Brevoxyl.
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Salicylic acid. This includes Propa pH or Stridex.
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Retinoid medicines you put on your skin. These include adapalene (Differin) and tretinoin
(Retin-A).
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Antibiotic pills or ointments. These include erythromycin, sarecycline, and tetracycline.
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Some birth control pills and spironolactone. These may help control acne related to the
effects of hormones.
Antibiotic pills for acne can cause side effects. They include yeast infections (in women) and diarrhea. Let
your doctor know if you have side effects.
Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding or if you're pregnant or think you might get pregnant. Some of
these medicines are not safe to take when you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Women who take some medicines
need to use birth control.
Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all
appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results
and keep a list of the medicines you take.
How can you care for yourself at home?
When should you call for help?
Call your
doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Current as of: November 16, 2023
Content Version: 14.0
Care instructions adapted under license by your
healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask
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this information.