Question: For how long can my son take pills for acne? He has been on Vibra-Tabs for some time now, and they control the severe pimples on his face and back. Can these pills cause any damage?
Vibra-Tabs are specifically designed to prevent and treat acne in teenagers. They contain a low dose of an antibiotic that is in the tetracycline class to destroy the bacteria that are responsible for this distressing problem.
If given to young children, these tablets may cause teeth discolouration and bone deformities. High doses may cause nausea and diarrhoea, and some individuals may be sensitive to the medication. These complications are uncommon, and generally in teenagers and adults they are a very safe and effective treatment for pimples.
There is no reason why your son should not take the tablets for several years if necessary. Thousands of other teenagers have done so without ill effect.

Question: Could you please give me information on the drug prescribed by specialists for the treatment of severe cases of acne. What are the side effects and long term effects?
The drug you are referring to is Roaccutane (isotretinoin), which is a tablet that can radically improve severe acne.
This drug is very effective, but may have serious side effects, and its prescription is limited to dermatologists only.
The most serious complication of its use occurs if it is taken by a pregnant woman. If this does happen, the baby will almost certainly be significantly deformed. For this reason, dermatologists are very careful, when prescribing it for women, that they are well established on an effective form of contraception such as the oral contraceptive pill.
Common non-serious side effects include a dry mouth, nose, eyes and skin; pealing of skin from palms and soles; headaches; vomiting; depression and diarrhoea. Another possible serious, but rare side effect is the development of scars in the eye.
Roaccutane is not a drug to be used lightly, and every other form of acne treatment should be used before it is considered, but some teenagers have severe acne that could cause permanent scarring and lifelong disfigurement. Roaccutane can clear their skin and prevent this scarring, and if used under the close supervision of a dermatologist, may dramatically improve the quality of life and attitudes of an affected teenager.