Page 1242 - Saunders Comprehensive Review For NCLEX-RN

b. Severe local irritation (burning,
blistering, scaling, swelling) may
require reducing the frequency of
applications.
c. Some products may contain sulfites;
monitor for serious allergic reactions.
2. Salicylic acid and sulfur/sulfacetamide can be used as
well.
3. Clindamycin and erythromycin
a. Both products are antibiotics that
suppress the growth of P. acnes.
b. Combination therapy with benzoyl
peroxide prevents the emergence of
resistant bacteria; fixed-dose
combinations include
clindamycin/benzoyl peroxide and
erythromycin/benzoyl peroxide.
4. Dapsone: Side and adverse effects include oiliness,
peeling, dryness, and erythema of the skin (oral form
of medication is used to treat leprosy).
C. Topical retinoids
1. Tretinoin
a. A derivative of vitamin A (vitamin A
supplements should be discontinued
during therapy)
b. In addition to treating acne, it may be
prescribed to reduce fine wrinkles,
skin roughness, and mottled
hyperpigmentation, as with age spots.
c. Can cause localized side and adverse
effects such as blistering, peeling,
crusting, burning, and swelling of the
skin
d. Abrasive products and keratolytic
products are discontinued before using
tretinoin to decrease localized adverse
effects.
e. Instruct the client to apply a sunscreen
with an SPF of 15 or greater and to
wear protective clothing when
outdoors due to sensitivity to UV light.
2. Adapalene: Similar to tretinoin and sensitizes the skin
to UV light; adverse effects include burning and
itching after application, redness, dryness, and scaling
of the skin. Initially may worsen acne; benefits seen in
8 to 12 weeks.
3. Tazarotene
a. Is a derivative of vitamin A (vitamin A

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