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Some of the medications that can cause acne-like rashes
include:
1.
Corticosteroids. Both systemic (oral or intravenous) and topical applied
steroid skin care creams can cause or aggravate an acne rash. In some
cases, the acne doesn't flare until after the steroid is stopped. Some
patients mistakenly use topical steroids to treat acne, only to have the acne
flare badly when the steroid cream is discontinued.
2. Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors.
This is a new class of anti-cancer
medications that have successfully extended the lives of some patients with
solid tumors such as lung cancer. One of the common side effects of this
class of medications is the development pustules around hair follicles, similar
to acne, but with no comedones or closed pores. This rash, or folliculitis, can be severe,
but is often associated with a good cancer-fighting response to the medication.
One recent study is suggesting treating
patients for the an acne rash as prevention, at the same time as the
chemotherapy epidermal growth factor inhibitors are given.
3. Androgens. Hormones play a role in most acne.
Taking male-hormones or androgens, such as testosterone, is associated with an
aggravation of acne in some individuals.
4. Seizure medication. Both Valproate and Hydantoin, used
to treat seizures have been reported to cause acne-like rashes.
5. Lithium. Lithium has been reported to fairly commonly
cause pustular acne reactions.
This list of acne-causing medications is by no means
all-inclusive. Please discuss the medications you are taking with your health
care provider while embarking on acne treatment.
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