Acne Medicamentosa (also known as drug-induced acne) is a form of acne caused by certain medications. It typically appears as sudden outbreaks of uniform, inflamed papules and pustules—often on the chest, back, and face.
Common Causes (Drugs that may induce Acne Medicamentosa):
Corticosteroids (oral or systemic, like prednisone)
Anabolic steroids
Isoniazid and Rifampicin (used for tuberculosis)
Phenytoin (anticonvulsant)
Lithium (used in psychiatric disorders)
Iodides and Bromides
EGFR inhibitors (used in cancer therapy)
Vitamin B12 in high doses
Hormonal medications, including some contraceptives
Treatment Approach
1. Identify and Stop the Triggering Drug
First step: Discontinue or replace the causative medication under a doctor’s guidance.
Note: If stopping the drug isn’t possible (e.g., chemotherapy), acne is managed symptomatically.
2. Topical Therapy
Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5–5%) – antibacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Topical Retinoids (e.g., adapalene, tretinoin) – normalize keratinization and reduce comedones.
Topical Antibiotics (e.g., clindamycin or erythromycin) – used for inflammatory lesions.
Often combined with benzoyl peroxide to prevent antibiotic resistance.
3. Oral Therapy (For moderate to severe cases)
Oral antibiotics (e.g., doxycycline, minocycline)
Oral Isotretinoin – in severe, resistant cases. Needs strict monitoring due to side effects.
Oral contraceptives or anti-androgens – if hormonal imbalance is a suspected factor.
4. Supportive Care
Gentle skin cleansers (non-comedogenic)
Avoid scrubbing or harsh skincare products
Sun protection to prevent pigmentation from healing acne
Prognosis
Improvement typically seen within 4–8 weeks of discontinuing the offending medication and starting acne treatment.
Full resolution depends on drug clearance from the body and severity of acne.
Important Notes
Do not self-discontinue prescribed medications; always consult the prescribing doctor.
Drug-induced acne can recur if the medication is restarted.
Lesions can resemble other dermatoses like folliculitis, so proper diagnosis is essential.