Cystic Acne, What Causes It and How It Is Treated

Cystic acne is one of the most severe forms of acne and it occurs when nodules form under the skin, and then later harden into painful cysts. This type of acne requires medical attention, so if you feel you have it, we highly recommend that you seek medical attention from a professional. Also, it usually persists for long periods of time, often weeks or even months.

Cystic acne is often treated with a drug called Accutane, an oral medication usually taken once or twice a day for 16 to 20 weeks. It is believed to reduce the size of the oil glands marginally so that less oil is produced. This reduces the chance for pores to clog because the body is not producing as much oil. When this occurs, the formation of pimples and cysts is reduced, and the pre-existing ones are not further irritated. This medication also helps to reduce cell shedding and the stickiness in the follicles, which helps prevent the development of this painful type of acne.

This drug has its advantages, including the compelling fact that it is a very effective medication that can help prevent extensive scarring in many patients. After one to 20 weeks of use, acne is reduced, or in some cases, almost completely goes away. The downside to this is that when the patient stops taking this medication, the acne often returns and it is necessary to once again begin taking it.

There are, however, several disadvantages to taking Accutane, some quite serious, and they should be considered before making the decision to take this drug. In addition to being very expensive, this drug is linked to some very adverse physical effects.

More serious side effects include decreased levels of blood cholesterol, lipid, and triglyceride levels, and abnormal liver enzymes. Patients taking Accutane are usually monitored by a physician to make sure these side effects do not occur, and to ensure that they stop the drug if the symptoms do occur. The most serious adverse effect of this drug is that it can cause serious birth defects. Women who are taking this drug are advised to take a pregnancy test each month to be sure the drug is stopped should they become pregnant.

There are other rules that women should follow pertaining to this drug therapy and having children, so it is important to consult your physician about this drug and its possible effects.

Its less serious possible side effects include inflammation of the mucous membrane on the eyes, inflammation of the lip, dry mouth, dry nose, dry skin, itching, and muscle aches.

The good news is that these side effects usually go away after the medication is stopped, but if you are using this drug and experience any of these side effects, it is crucial that you tell your doctor immediately.

Cystic acne is one of the most painful types, and perhaps the most difficult to cure. It is important to find a treatment that works for you, and be sure to consult your physician about its effects.

Further Recommended Reading on Cystic Acne:
Dr. Weil

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