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Bactrim for 10 Years for Severe Cystic Acne, Accutane Now?
asked 7 months ago by john68162
Latest answer by Tobi B. Richman-Steinhardt, MD
Question viewed 494 times
Tags: Bactrim DS, candidate
I've been on Bactrim DS for 10 years for large cysts on my face(1-2 a year, sometimes 2" in size). I recently tried going off of the Bactrim now that I'm older, and had a severe breakout(50+ cysts on back in 3 weeks), on back, shoulders, knees/upperlegs, face and chest. Bactrim slowly cleared me up again. Should I be going on accutane or staying on bactrim forever? I'm worried at this point accutane might not be effective(severity) or last and long-term bactrim may have worsened the problem.
4 answers to Bactrim for 10 Years for Severe Cystic Acne, Accutane Now?
+1
Time for Accutane
Men who have long-term cystic acne on the back have a very good chance of improving with a 5-month course of Accutane. Although you have been on Bactrim for an incredibly long time (!), I would not expect that it has worsened the problem for you---you've just suffered a delay in getting to the more effective therapy! Accutane works in a completely different way than antibiotics do, so it's a good choice for you to consider with proper screening by your dermatologist.
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Tobi B. Richman-Steinhardt, MD
Boca Raton Dermatologic Surgeon
Boca Raton Dermatologic Surgeon
+1
Accutane for long term acne
I think Accutane would be a viable next step for you. Ten years is a long time to be on Bactrim, and it sounds like discontinuing the medication is not an option for you. Many--most--patients have a long term remission after completing and approriate course of Accutane, although a few may need to repeat courses.
Dornechia George Carter, MD
Dallas Dermatologist
Dallas Dermatologist
+1
Accutane for Stubborn Acne
Ten years is a long time to be on Bactrim. Doxycycline is a safer long term acne antibiotic so I am surprised that hasn't been your maintenance medication.
You are right to consider Accutane. It is an ideal option for stubborn or severe acne. You will need to be on it for approximately five months with monthly visits to monitor your blood tests. There is an 80% chance that you will be essentially cured. If it doesn't cure your acne, after a rest period of several months, you...
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T. Wayne Day, MD
Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon
Nashville Dermatologic Surgeon
+1
Accutane for back acne
Accutane works well for body and facial acne, so there's no reason not to try it. I prescribe it to many patients for severe cystic acne, many of whom have tried and used other topical or oral medications before. Based on the photo and your description, Accutane seems like a good solution for you.
