Though acne is by no means a life-threatening condition, profit incentives and a blind-eye on the part of the FDA create an environment where the various medications used to treat the condition can expose users to serious health hazards. So, always consider the risks associated with any acne treatment before proceeding with use. Most treatments are safe when used according to the product guidelines while under the care of a physician, but individual reactions will vary.

Accutane (Isotretinoin) - a medicine for acne, is causing birth defects, depression and suicides, allege researchers. Dr. David Graham, associate director of the FDA's office of drug safety, named Accutane as one of the drugs he says should be restricted or withdrawn from the market. The drug has caused scores of birth defects, which are even acknowledged by the company in its product information. The list of side-effects is indeed incredible.

Benzoyl Peroxide - One of the most common treatments for acne and is included in many popular over-the-counter lotions, soaps, gels and creams. It works by killing the bacteria that frequently causes acne infection. The most common side effect is skin irritation, which can range from slight to more severe and can include rash and blistering.

Tetracycline - A commonly used acne antibiotic treatment. In addition to the reports related to teeth staining and possible drug interactions, a report released by a university in Germany indicates that side effects related to the use of tetracycline may well include possible contraction of Sweet’s syndrome; a condition in which painful red nodules arise on various parts of the body and is also generally accompanied by fever and malaise. Another report released in February of 2000 indicated that tetracycline could also be responsible for the induction of intracranial hypertension.

Minocycline - May produce side effects similar to tetracycline, causing staining in permanent teeth. Especially alarming is that the staining may not be reversible. Perhaps even more disturbing is that it may also be responsible for the development of various pulmonary complications, such as pulmonary lupus and hypersensitivity pneumonitis.

Doxycycline – A report released in 2002 by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine reported a case of doxycycline induced hypoglycemia induction in a nondiabetic patient.

Important! - Women who are pregnant are cautioned to consult their physician prior to using any acne treatment.

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