7 Medications That Can Cause Acne: The Shocking Truth
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| Acne |
Acne isn't just a puberty problem. Medications you take for other conditions can cause acne or make it worse. Here are seven that can do that:
1) Birth control pills. The combined pill and progestin-only pill can trigger acne. And acne isn't just a cosmetic problem. It can lead to scarring and low self-esteem.
2) Corticosteroids. These are anti-inflammatory drugs used to treat conditions like arthritis, lupus, and asthma. They can cause acne on your face, neck, back, and chest.
3) Antidepressants. Some antidepressants can cause acne, especially tricyclic antidepressants and medications that increase testosterone levels.
4) Epilepsy drugs. Medications used to treat epilepsy, such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, can cause acne.
5) Isotretinoin. This acne medication can actually cause acne, in a small number of people.
6) Lithium. This medication is used to treat bipolar disorder. It can cause acne, especially on the back.
7) Androgen blockers. Medications used to treat conditions like endometri
1. Corticosteroids
2. Testosterone
3. Birth control pills
4. Lithium
5. Lamotrigine
6. Phenytoin and other antiepileptics
7. Certain cancer medications
1. Corticosteroids
Corticosteroids are a type of medication that can be used to treat a number of conditions. Corticosteroids are typically used to reduce inflammation and swelling. However, they can also be used to treat other conditions such as allergies, asthma, and even some types of cancer.
While corticosteroids are typically safe and effective, they can cause a number of side effects. One of the most common side effects of corticosteroids is acne.
Acne is a condition that causes the pores of the skin to become blocked. This can lead to the development of blackheads, whiteheads, and pimples.
While anyone can develop acne, it is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults. This is because the hormones that are released during puberty can cause the pores of the skin to become blocked.
Corticosteroids can also cause acne by increasing the production of oil in the skin. This can cause the pores of the skin to become blocked, leading to the development of acne.
There are a number of different types of corticosteroids that can cause acne. These include:
- Prednisone
- Dexamethasone
- Hydrocortisone
- Methylprednisolone
- Triamcinolone
- Betamethasone
- Fluocinonide
If you are taking a corticosteroid and you develop acne, it is important to talk to your doctor. They may be able to switch you to a different type of corticosteroid that does not cause acne.
In some cases, your doctor may also prescribe a medication to treat your acne. There are a number of different medications that can be used to treat acne. These include:
- Retinoids
- Antibiotics
- Benzoyl peroxide
- Salicylic acid
- Azelaic acid
If you are taking a corticosteroid and you develop acne, it is important to talk to your doctor. They will be able to determine the best course of treatment for you.
2. Testosterone
Testosterone is a hormone that is important for many body functions, including the development of the reproductive organs, the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density, and the production of red blood cells. It is also a potent androgen, meaning that it can stimulate the growth of certain tissues, including the sebaceous glands.
The sebaceous glands are small glands that are found in the skin. They produce an oily substance called sebum, which helps to keep the skin moisturized and prevents the growth of bacteria. Testosterone can stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, which can lead to the development of acne.
Acne is a common skin condition that is characterized by the development of blackheads, whiteheads, or pimples. The exact cause of acne is unknown, but it is thought to be related to hormones, genetics, and the overproduction of sebum. Acne is most commonly seen in teenagers and young adults, but it can also occur in adults.
There are many different treatments for acne, but some of the most common include topical retinoids, topical antibiotics, and oral contraceptives. These treatments can help to control the overproduction of sebum and reduce the inflammation that is associated with acne.
In some cases, acne may be a side effect of taking certain medications. Testosterone is one of the medications that can cause acne. Other medications that can cause acne include corticosteroids, androgens, and lithium.
If you are taking a medication that is causing you to break out in acne, talk to your doctor about other treatment options. There are many different acne treatments that are available, and your doctor will be able to recommend the best one for you.
3. Birth control pills
estimates that about three out of every four women will experience acne at some point in their lives. And for some women, acne is a chronic condition that can be difficult to manage. There are many factors that can contribute to the development of acne, including hormones, certain medications, diet, and stress.
birth control pills are a common medication that can cause acne. This is because birth control pills contain hormones that can work to lower the amount of oil produced by the skin. This can lead to clogged pores and breakouts. If you suspect that your birth control pills are causing your acne, speak to your doctor about other options.
There are many other medications that can cause acne. These include corticosteroids, adrenocorticotropic hormone, lithium, and anticonvulsants. Certain medications can cause acne by increasing the amount of oil produced by the skin or by decreasing the skin's ability to shed dead skin cells. If you are taking any medication that you think might be causing your acne, speak to your doctor.
4. Lithium
Lithium is best known as a treatment for bipolar disorder, but it can also be prescribed for conditions like depression and schizophrenia. Lithium can be effective in treating these conditions, but it can also cause acne.
Acne is a common side effect of lithium, and it can be a serious problem for people who are taking this medication. Lithium can cause the sebaceous glands in the skin to produce too much sebum, which can lead to clogged pores and acne.
There are a few things that you can do to try to minimize the acne caused by lithium. Try to keep your face clean by washing it twice a day with a mild soap. Avoid scrubbing your face too hard, as this can irritate the skin and make the acne worse. You should also avoid oily cosmetics and lotions, as they can clog the pores and make the acne worse.
If the acne is severe, you may need to talk to your doctor about changing your lithium dose or switching to another medication. In some cases, acne can be treated with topical medications or antibiotics. If you are having trouble dealing with the acne caused by lithium, talk to your doctor about your options.
5. Lamotrigine
Lamotrigine ( Lamictal) is an anti-epileptic medication, also called an anticonvulsant. It is used to control seizures in adults and children with epilepsy. Lamotrigine can also be used to treat bipolar disorder.
Lamotrigine may cause a serious rash. Tell your doctor right away if you develop a rash, itchiness, hoarseness, trouble breathing, trouble swallowing, or any swelling of your hands, face, or mouth. If you have any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately or get emergency medical help.
Lamotrigine may also cause other side effects. Call your doctor if you have any unusual problems while you are taking this medication.
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking lamotrigine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
chest pain;
fast or pounding heartbeat;
shortness of breath;
fever, chills, or sore throat;
swollen glands;
sudden dizziness or fainting;
seizures;
yellowing of the skin or eyes;
unusual bruising or bleeding;
unusual tiredness or weakness;
vomiting;
dark urine;
clay-colored stools;
jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes);
headache with chest pain and severe dizziness;
coma; or
convulsions (seizures).
6. Phenytoin and other antiepileptics
Phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication that has been shown to cause acne. In one study, 34% of patients taking phenytoin developed acne.
Phenytoin can cause acne by altering the way the body metabolizes vitamin A. Vitamin A is important for healthy skin. When phenytoin is taken, it alters the way the body metabolizes vitamin A, which can lead to the development of acne.
Phenytoin is not the only antiepileptic medication that can cause acne. Other antiepileptic medications that have been associated with the development of acne include carbamazepine, valproic acid, and lamotrigine.
If you are taking an antiepileptic medication and develop acne, talk to your doctor about alternative medications. There are many different medications that can be used to treat epilepsy, and your doctor will work with you to find the best medication for you.
7. Certain cancer medications
Acne is a common side effect of certain cancer medications. The medications that can cause acne include:
-Retinoids: These are drugs that are derived from vitamin A, and they are commonly used to treat cancer. Retinoids can cause acne by increasing the production of sebum, which can clog the pores and lead to breakouts.
-Epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors: These drugs are used to treat cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. They can also cause acne by increasing the production of sebum.
-Antiandrogens: These drugs are used to treat cancer by blocking the action of androgens, hormones that can promote the growth of cancer cells. They can also cause acne by decreasing the turnover of cells in the follicle, which can lead to the build-up of sebum and the development of acne.
-Steroids: These drugs are used to treat cancer by suppressing the immune system. They can also cause acne by increasing the production of sebum and by affecting the turnover of cells in the follicle.
If you are being treated with any of these cancer medications, it is important to talk to your doctor about the possibility of developing acne. There are treatments available that can help to manage the condition.
If you're one of the many people struggling with acne, you may be surprised to learn that some of your medications could be to blame. 7 Medications That Can Cause Acne: The Shocking Truth highlights seven different medications that have been linked to causing or worsening acne. If you're on any of these medications and are struggling with acne, talk to your doctor about alternative options.
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