Oral Medications for Treating Acne: A big no no.

All of my clients know I am a big advocate for internal health and against oral medications for clearing acne. We don't want bandaids, we want long-term results without your health at risk.

Consult a naturopath doctor and an acne expert before any medication. Get down to the root cause of your acne and then go from there. Acne takes time and unfortunately is not an overnight process. But with the right professionals in your corner, there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Isotretinoin, commonly known by its brand name Accutane, is a powerful medication primarily used for severe acne treatment. While it can be highly effective for VERY severe cases of acne, it also comes with potential risks and side effects. Here are some of the dangers associated with Accutane:

• Birth Defects: Perhaps the most well-known risk of Accutane is its potential to cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant should not use Accutane due to the high risk of birth defects, including craniofacial abnormalities, heart defects, and central nervous system abnormalities.

• Mental Health Effects: Accutane has been associated with an increased risk of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. While the link between Accutane and mental health is still debated, it's essential for individuals taking the medication to be monitored closely for any changes in mood or behavior.

• Dryness and Irritation: Accutane commonly causes dryness and irritation of the skin, lips, eyes, and mucous membranes. This can lead to chapped lips, dry skin, nosebleeds, and eye irritation. Some individuals may also experience photosensitivity, making them more prone to sunburn.

• Muscle and Joint Pain: Accutane can cause muscle and joint pain in some individuals, leading to discomfort or stiffness. This side effect is usually temporary and resolves after discontinuing the medication.

• Liver Damage: Accutane may cause elevated liver enzymes in some individuals, indicating liver inflammation or damage. Regular monitoring of liver function is typically recommended during Accutane treatment.

• Gastrointestinal Issues: Accutane can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. In rare cases, severe gastrointestinal issues such as pancreatitis or inflammatory bowel disease may occur.

• Vision Problems: Accutane may cause changes in vision, including decreased night vision, blurred vision, or difficulty wearing contact lenses. These symptoms typically resolve after stopping the medication but can persist in some cases.

• Bone Density Reduction: Long-term use of Accutane has been associated with decreased bone density in some individuals, which may increase the risk of fractures or osteoporosis later in life.

Spironolactone is a medication primarily used for treating conditions like high blood pressure, heart failure, and edema (fluid retention). It's also commonly prescribed off-label for hormonal acne in women. While generally considered safe and effective when used as directed, spironolactone can pose certain risks and potential harms, including:

• Hyperkalemia: Spironolactone can cause an increase in potassium levels in the blood, leading to a condition called hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia can cause symptoms such as weakness, fatigue, irregular heartbeat, or even life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias.

• Dehydration and Electrolyte Imbalance: Spironolactone is a diuretic, meaning it increases urine production. This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, particularly if fluid and electrolyte intake is not adequately monitored.

• Low Blood Pressure: Spironolactone can cause a drop in blood pressure, especially when first starting the medication or when doses are increased. This can result in symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.

• Menstrual Irregularities: In women, spironolactone can cause menstrual irregularities such as changes in menstrual flow or missed periods. Some women may also experience breast tenderness or enlargement (gynecomastia).

• Potential for Birth Defects: Spironolactone is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the potential risk of feminization of male fetuses. It should not be used by pregnant women or those planning to become pregnant.

• Drug Interactions: Spironolactone may interact with other medications, including potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, ACE inhibitors, angiotensin receptor blockers, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), potentially leading to adverse effects or reduced efficacy of either medication.

• Adrenal Suppression: Prolonged use of spironolactone can suppress adrenal function, particularly if taken at high doses. Abrupt discontinuation of the medication can lead to adrenal insufficiency, characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, nausea, and low blood pressure.

• Breast Cancer Risk: Some studies have suggested a potential association between long-term spironolactone use and an increased risk of breast cancer, although more research is needed to establish a definitive link.

Though these side effects are different for everyone, It's essential for individuals prescribed Accutane or Spironolactone to discuss potential risks and side effects with their healthcare provider, adhere to recommended monitoring guidelines, and report any concerning symptoms promptly.

What I want you to take away from this newsletter is that oral medications should not be prescribed easily to you (even though they are), and you should not be so accepting of them. DO YOUR RESEARCH AND EXPLORE ALL TREATMENT OPTIONS WITH AN ACNE EXPERT AND NATUROPATH DOCTOR BEFORE EXPLORING LAST RESORT OPTIONS. These are band-aid options and will not give you long lasting results. Trust me, I see it on a daily basis unfortunately.

I would love to consult with you on all your treatment options if you are someone struggling with your skin.

Hope this was as informative as possible for you. Another day, another topic to learn about!

Best, Maria