Can Urticaria Medications Cause Acne Breakouts? - Dermatology

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Can medications for urticaria cause acne?


Hello doctor, I have recently experienced an outbreak of urticaria and have been taking the following medications for about two weeks: Prednisone 5 mg (a corticosteroid), Chlorpheniramine 2 mg (an antihistamine), and Hydroxyzine 5 mg (an antihistamine).
However, I have noticed that my skin has started to develop acne during this medication period (I have a history of rosacea).
Could you please advise which of these medications might be causing the acne? Will my skin return to normal after discontinuing the medication? Thank you, doctor.

Cherry, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/10/22

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology


After discontinuing Pulilan tablets, the condition will return to normal.

Reply Date: 2022/10/22

More Info


Urticaria, commonly known as hives, can be a distressing condition that often requires medication for relief. The medications you mentioned—Prednisolone (普立朗), Dexchlorpheniramine (舒敏), and Hydroxyzine (好克敏)—are commonly prescribed to manage symptoms associated with allergic reactions, including urticaria. However, concerns about potential side effects, such as acne breakouts, are valid and worth discussing.

Prednisolone is a corticosteroid that is effective in reducing inflammation and suppressing the immune response. While corticosteroids can be beneficial for managing allergic reactions, they are also known to have a range of side effects. One of the potential side effects of systemic corticosteroids like Prednisolone is acne or exacerbation of pre-existing acne. This is particularly true in individuals who may have a predisposition to acne, such as those with a history of rosacea (酒糟), as you mentioned. Corticosteroids can increase oil production in the skin and alter the skin's microbiome, which may contribute to acne development.

Dexchlorpheniramine is an antihistamine that is generally less likely to cause acne as a side effect. Antihistamines are primarily used to alleviate allergic symptoms and do not typically influence skin oil production or clog pores. However, individual reactions can vary, and some people may experience different side effects.

Hydroxyzine is another antihistamine that can cause sedation and has anxiolytic properties. Similar to Dexchlorpheniramine, it is not commonly associated with acne breakouts. However, it is essential to consider that any medication can have unique effects on different individuals.

Given your history of rosacea, it is possible that the combination of medications, particularly the corticosteroid, may be contributing to your acne flare-ups. Corticosteroids can sometimes worsen rosacea symptoms, leading to increased redness and breakouts.

If you are experiencing acne breakouts while taking these medications, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms and determine whether the medications should be adjusted or if alternative treatments for urticaria might be more suitable for you. It is also important to discuss your concerns about rosacea and how it may be affected by the medications you are taking.

In terms of recovery, once you discontinue the use of Prednisolone, it is possible that your skin may return to its baseline condition, but this can vary from person to person. It may take some time for your skin to normalize, especially if the acne has been persistent. Implementing a gentle skincare routine and avoiding harsh products can help support your skin during this transition.

In conclusion, while Prednisolone is the most likely candidate for causing acne breakouts among the medications you are taking, individual responses can vary. It is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and concerns to ensure you receive the most appropriate care for your condition.

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