Treatment Guidelines in Adult Women: Effectiveness of Hormonal Therapy in Treating Acne Vulgaris

The document from March 1, 2011, outlines the effectiveness of hormonal therapy in treating acne vulgaris in adult women, particularly those with higher androgen levels or conditions like androgenic alopecia and SAHA syndrome. Hormonal treatments discussed include antiandrogens such as cyproterone acetate, spironolactone, and flutamide, as well as oral contraceptives (OCs), which are noted to be effective in reducing acne lesions and are safe with some potential side effects. The document recommends screening for endocrinopathies in certain cases and mentions other treatments like low-dose glucocorticoids for elevated serum DHEAS, and GnRH agonists for inhibiting ovarian androgen production, though they have limitations due to cost and side effects. Research is ongoing for therapies targeting local androgen production in the sebaceous gland. Hormonal therapy is advised for women who also seek oral contraception, have signs of hyperandrogenism, or have recalcitrant acne, and can be used in combination with other treatments.