Taking tetralysal for acne. Reddish painful pimples. Can I increase the dosage?
Patient: Hi, I ve been taking Tetralysal for a bit over four weeks now for acne . I had moderate acne before, but it was worse than I ve ever had. Now it has gotten completely worse, and I have broken out everywhere on my face. Also it has gotten extremely red and it s painful. I don t want to give up on the antibiotic , as it s my only hope, but I am really upset that this has happened. I am thinking of upping my dose to twice daily, because I know some people do that. I really need this skin problem to go away. Also I wash my face twice daily and put cream that the derm prescribed as well. My skin just feels really irritated and like it s getting worse daily. Any advice? Doctor: hi..Thanks for your query  Acne can present in several forms. This includes whiteheads, blackheads, and red, inflammed patches of skin (such as cysts).In the course of evolution, you may have any or all of these.Sometimes ,over a period of time, even if you are under a specific for of therapy,one agent might not be enough to handle it completely.This is based on the various internal hormonal stimuli as well, which can change several times in.  Do not use heavy/thick creams ..Use only gel based moisturizers/ sunscreen for regular use.U can use a cleanser containing Salicylic acid/ Glycolic acid on a regular basis.  You can start taking Salicylic acid peels from a qualified dermatologist to achieve a better control of your acne.These are safe and latest methods whereby you can achieve a better control, but not be perturbed by the side -effects of long term antibiotic therapies. You should change the dodage only after F/U with your doctor.Also use the creams initially on alternate days , as you tolerate it ,you can ,make it daily.Since acne creams make the skin dry , they feel irritating to some on starting the application. Also acne is a very recurrent condition,as you see...It is essential to maintain yourself on a control by doing frequent followups with your doctor and changing meds as and when required.U definitely do not need to stop anything now, however please visit the doctor early so that there are no delays in the onset of more efficacious therapies.  Hope this helps.Take Care!