Which medication is typically prescribed for inflammatory acne lesions in adolescents?

The use of 5% dapsone gel combined with adapalene is recognized as an effective treatment for inflammatory acne lesions, particularly in adolescents. This combination leverages the antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of dapsone along with the retinoid effects of adapalene, which helps unclog pores and prevent the formation of new lesions.

This combination therapy has been shown to reduce both acne lesions and their associated inflammation effectively, making it particularly suitable for inflammatory acne. The dual mechanism of action addresses different aspects of acne pathology, which enhances the overall effectiveness of the treatment plan.

Additionally, considering the age group, the combination is generally well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile, which is an important consideration when prescribing medications to adolescents.

Isotretinoin, while highly effective for severe acne cases, is usually reserved for more resistant forms of acne due to its potential side effects and the need for close monitoring. Tazarotene is a topical retinoid that could be beneficial but is not specifically the first line for inflammatory lesions. Erythromycin as a standalone treatment may not provide sufficient efficacy against moderate to severe inflammatory acne when compared to combination therapies.