A Controversial Proposal
A Controversial Proposal
As bacterial antibiotic resistance continues to emerge as a serious global threat, it is crucial that all clinicians re-examine their use of antibiotics, remaining cognizant of the potential deleterious consequences enumerated above. For dermatologists, eliminating all antibiotic use for the treatment of acne (and rosacea) is a first step in assuming responsibility for helping combat the serious problem of antibiotic resistance. Taking into consideration the numerous possible side effects of antibiotics; existing prevalence of P. acnes resistance worldwide; worsening of the overall resistance problem; and ready availability of BPO along with many other alternative therapeutic interventions, the idea of "no more antibiotics for acne" should seem less extreme to some of our colleagues, and should at least provoke thoughtful self-appraisal of current prescribing habits for many others.
Conclusion
As bacterial antibiotic resistance continues to emerge as a serious global threat, it is crucial that all clinicians re-examine their use of antibiotics, remaining cognizant of the potential deleterious consequences enumerated above. For dermatologists, eliminating all antibiotic use for the treatment of acne (and rosacea) is a first step in assuming responsibility for helping combat the serious problem of antibiotic resistance. Taking into consideration the numerous possible side effects of antibiotics; existing prevalence of P. acnes resistance worldwide; worsening of the overall resistance problem; and ready availability of BPO along with many other alternative therapeutic interventions, the idea of "no more antibiotics for acne" should seem less extreme to some of our colleagues, and should at least provoke thoughtful self-appraisal of current prescribing habits for many others.
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