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How Quickly Should Bactrim DS Stop Cystic Acne?
asked 1 year ago by Kilometers in Mesa, AZ
Latest answer by Anthony Perri, MD
Question viewed 1,143 times
Tags: Bactrim DS, cystic acne, rosacea
Several tetracyclines have failed ( doxy, mino, solodyn) as have topicals (evoclin, triaz, duac, retin-a, aczone. I started Bactrim DS 3 weeks ago (2x daily) but I am still experiencing new cysts on my back ( none on my face/chest).
How soon should this stop them? Should I still be getting new cysts 3 weeks in ? They are causing raised scars on my chest & back. I am classified as 'moderate cystic acne with very mild rosacea'. My derm has me taking it until July and re-evaluating at that time.
2 answers to How Quickly Should Bactrim DS Stop Cystic Acne?
+1
Bactrim for Acne
Bactrim is not an antibiotic that I typically prescribe for Acne as it is a rather "big gun" antibiotic for serious infections. As it can be very effective for acne, Bactrim has significant side effects such as causing a life threatening rash. However, in severe acne cases I may prescribe it for 1-2 weeks for quick control of severe cystic acne prior to initiating another treatment regimen.
+1
Bactrim and cystic acne
I am generally not in favor of long-term antibiotics for acne so even if Bactrim were helpful, long-term use can cause bacterial resistance and a decrease in effectiveness over time. You may want to discuss the option of Accutane with your dermatologist. While Accutane has its share of potential side effects, it is a consideration when other therapies including oral antibiotics have failed.
Bryan K. Chen, MD
San Diego Dermatologist
San Diego Dermatologist