What medications are effective at treating acne?

Topicals or oral: Topicals (ie: benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin, erythromycin, tretinoin or retin-a, differin or adapalene) are helpful for mild to moderate breakouts. Severe widespread breakouts especially those involving chest and back may require oral antibiotics. Severe cystic acne may require accutane. Anti-androgens such as Yaz (drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol) or yazmin are very helpful if there's a hormonal component.

Benzoyl peroxide: Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, retinoids are some of the commonly used medications.

Treating Acne differ: The cause of acne is poorly understood. However the consequences may be devastating. While Accutane is one of the most effective treatments, therapy requires a full understanding of the risks. Once active cystic acne has occurred, practitioners differ in their treatment regimens. In the usa, topical salicylic acid and/or benzoyl peroxide, oral systemic retinoids and/or a variety of antibiotics.