Common Acne Medications Double the Risk of Eye Infections

For many Americans, one of the worst parts of puberty is acne. Some can control it with over the counter medications and good hygiene. But millions turn to prescription medications like Accutane or Roaccutane to treat their blemishes. While it is common knowledge that many acne treatments will bleach wash cloths and dry out skin, a new study from Tel Aviv University reveals the powerful prescription medications can lead to eye infections.

According to Science Codex, doctors have been concerned about a possible link between prescription medications and eye infections for years. Without statistical analysis, there was no way to determine whether or not that link existed. But Drs. Gabriel Chodick, Meira Neudorfer, Orna Shamai-Lubovitz, and Varda Shalev have published a new study in the Archives of Dermatology showing that the oral prescriptions double the risk of developing an ocular infection.

The associated eye infections included sties and conjunctivitis (pink eye). These conditions are frequently brought on by dry eyes. The medications are proven to dry the skin and lips; now they have been linked to dry eyes as well.

Doctors and their patients must weigh the risks when deciding whether or not prescription acne treatments are warranted. While typically not considered serious, sties and conjunctivitis can lead to chronic eye problems including a degenerative retina and other structural problems.

OUR OFFICES

Our main office is here in Downtown Tampa, Florida in the Channelside neighborhood. Office in Wesley Chapel and Largo are available by appointment only.

Distasio Law Firm
N/a