Recent Therapeutic Developments for Acne
February 2013
in “
Expert Review of Dermatology
”
TLDR New acne treatments include combination creams, advanced retinoids, and light therapies, focusing on safety and patient adherence.
The 2013 document reviews the state of acne treatment, emphasizing the chronic inflammatory nature of the condition and the influence of genetic, microbial, and environmental factors. It highlights the use of topical fixed combinations, such as benzoyl peroxide with adapalene or clindamycin, to enhance efficacy and prevent bacterial resistance. The European S3 guidelines are noted for providing severity-adjusted treatment recommendations. Topical retinoids are underscored for their anti-inflammatory properties and role in maintenance therapy. New delivery systems for tretinoin and the efficacy of adapalene and tazarotene are discussed, as well as the importance of combination therapies. Oral antibiotics, hormonal therapies, and oral isotretinoin are reviewed for moderate-to-severe acne, with a caution on the side effects of isotretinoin and minocycline. Adjunctive treatments like light and laser therapies are mentioned, with a focus on patient adherence to improve treatment outcomes. The document also explores emerging therapies and the need for more evidence to support their use, concluding that acne management should be multifactorial, safe, and effective, with a focus on patient adherence.