To      : Jessica
Re      : Oral preps for Acne

As for the question of good oral preps for acne,  since the topical ones don't
seem to work for this patient,  I am far too removed from this case to offer
any good suggestions.  Most oral medications, tetracyclines and other
antibiotics used for long periods would be contraindicated in a BFing mom
simply because of their chronicity (long term exposure).  Accutane, a special
retinoid, is in my opinion far too dangerous to use in a breastfeeding mother
because of numerous side effects.  In addition, because Accutane is horribly
teratogenic,  the mother would have to be using at least 2 methods of birth
control which might not be optimal for continued breastfeeding.

So I would suggest that the mom listen to her dermatologist and keep with the
topical preparations.  I'm sorry there's no alternate to offer her.

Regards

Tom Hale