Ampicillin, Accutane with Antibiotic, Hormonal therapy, § Age

[shar]

I have read almost everything on this site and still have some unaswered acne questions; though the forums have answered so many and been so informative, thank you.(I am 26 and have had acne since age 12.  I respond fairly well to antibiotics but not birth control, am allergic to benzol peroxide).



1.  This site said longterm use of non wide range antibiotics like tetracycline is not harmful. Antibiotics are the only thing that helps me, though not near 100%, but much better than others.  What about ampicillin?  I have been on it for about three years, taking breaks periodically, in which I have immediate reflareups (same thing happens on other antibiotics).

IS LONG-TERM USE OF AMPICILLIN OR ANY PENICILLIN TYPE MED HARMFUL?



2.After reading the forums I am considering Accutane.  Some people's experience seems to be poor skin condition while on and then once off, it clears.  

IS IT POSSIBLE TO ALSO TAKE AN ANTIBIOTIC DURING THE AVERAGE 20week ACCUTANE TREATMENT TO MAINTAIN MORE CLEAR DURING TREATMENT, OR AM I DESTINED TO BE NICE AND BUMPY THROUGHOUT?



3. Dr. R  seems to be opposed to hormonal treatment.  I took BC pills and it did not help, but I meet many of the symptoms associated with excess androgen.  WHY IS HORMONAL THERAPY NOT THE BEST OPTION?



4.  Dr. R also said many times one will grow out of this.  HOW LONG ARE WE TALKING HERE?  I know I can get treatment in the meantime, but one posting said she was 33, so am I doomed for at least seven more years?  



Please respond to all FOUR of my questions.  Thank you.

Shar

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Shar:



1. Generally not.

2. Better not.

3. There are better and safer ones.

4. On average, 35-40.



For what you describe, I don't think Accutane would give you more than temporary relief; it's more suitable for severe, cystic acne.



Best.



Dr. Rockoff