Which medication class is often prescribed in addition to topical treatments for acne?

Oral antibiotics are commonly prescribed alongside topical treatments for acne due to their effectiveness in addressing inflammatory acne. These medications help reduce the population of acne-causing bacteria on the skin, decrease inflammation, and promote healing of existing lesions. By providing systemic treatment, oral antibiotics can target deeper skin structures, making them a beneficial adjunct to topical therapies that primarily act on the surface of the skin.

Topical treatments often focus on unblocking pores, reducing oiliness, and promoting skin cell turnover. However, for more severe cases of acne, particularly those that are inflammatory or nodular, oral antibiotics can be essential for achieving a more comprehensive and effective treatment plan. This combined approach enhances the overall effectiveness of acne management, leading to reduced lesions and improved skin appearance.

The other classes of medications do not serve the same primary purpose in the treatment of acne. While beta-blockers may be useful for conditions like hypertension or anxiety, antifungals target fungal infections, and antihistamines primarily manage allergic reactions. Therefore, they are not typically used as adjuncts in acne treatment.