Rosacea drug treatment can become more difficult if the condition is allowed to progress. There are several types of drugs for the treatment of rosacea.
The use of antibiotic creams and pills to lessen the redness on the face and swelling in the eyes is one of the methods for the treatment of rosacea.
However, overuse of oral antibiotics for a long period can have side effects. So it is necessary to begin medication with oral medicine and then follow it up with application of an antibiotic cream.
After taking into consideration the state of the disease, doctors usually prescribe the following drugs:
1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics are the most common rosacea drugs. Doctors prescribe antibiotics in the form of pills or creams. If the condition is severe, doctors prescribe pills along with cream. Oral antibiotics work faster than topical creams, so doctors usually prescribe these for quick relief. Erythromycin, minocycline, and tetracycline are the oral antibiotics commonly prescribed by doctors.
2. Isotretinoin: Isotretinoin is usually prescribed for severe cases of rosacea. Isotretinoin treatment is started only if the disease fails to respond to an antibiotic treatment course. Isotretinoin is a strong oral medication that hampers the production of oil by sebaceous glands. Pregnant women should avoid taking isotretinoin, as it has severe side effects resulting in miscarriage or birth defects.
3. Tretinoin: Tretinoin, also known as Renova, Retin-A or Avita, is a topical medicine used as a rosacea drug. It is a common medication for acne. Use of tretinoin reduces fine wrinkles and smoothes rough facial skin. Also known as vitamin A acid or retinoic acid, tretinoin comprises vitamin A and comes in three forms—liquid, gel, and cream.
4. Benzoyl peroxide: This medication is usually used to treat acne and is also used for rosacea. Benzoyl peroxide reduces the amount of bacteria on the skin.
5. Finacea: Another drug for rosacea is finacea, which is again used only on the skin.
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