Archive for February, 2006
Here’s an interesting little story. In our experience, many people tend to think that any symptom they may have while on Accutane is due to the Accutane itself. Not always so.
We recently heard of a patient who lost his appetite while on Accutane and lost some weight. His family was at first worried that it was due to the isotretinoin that he was on. As a precaution, the medication was stopped. Further questioning revealed that he had just broken up with his first girlfriend, and that his lack of appetite was due to his being upset over the break up.
So, it’s not always the Accutane that is the cause of life’s symptoms. The good new is, his skin is looking great and he shouldn’t have trouble finding another girlfriend.
February 7th, 2006
One of the newest crazes in the treatment of acne has been the Zeno Acne Clearing Device. The device is revolutionary and over the counter and works by applying controlled heat to newly forming blemishes.
What’s important to know however, is that the Zeno device is not a cure-all for every type of acne. The Zeno Acne Clearing Device is indicated for mild to moderate acne and will not help those with more severe cystic acne.
To learn more about these indications visit our Zeno FAQs or Is Zeno for You pages.
February 6th, 2006
A new topical antibiotic cream may be emerging in the US market soon. Nadifloxacin is a new quinolone topical antibiotic in development in Japan. Nadifloxacin will come in a 0.44% cream. The DNA gyrase inhibitor has not suffered from any resistence patterns like other topical antibiotics incluing clindamycin and erythromycin.
Time will tell how this new product may be used in the fight against p. acnes and acne in general.
February 5th, 2006
Dapsone is an antibiotic that has been used for many disorders other than acne in the past. Until now, dapsone has only been available in an oral form with potential side effects involving the blood and nervous system.
Recently, the FDA approved a topical version of dapsone that will go by the trade name Aczone Topical Gel 5%. This topical version has very little absorption making it much safer than oral doses.
The medication shows both antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects without bacterial resistence and has shown to be moderately effective for both acne vulgaris and rosacea.
The one downside is that the FDA will require an inital blood test prior to starting the medication. This may deter physcians from prescribing the new medication. We shall see.
February 4th, 2006
A recent article in Practical Dermatology attempted to uncover the truth behind claims from over the counter (OTC) products and prescription medications.
In the OTC arena, benzoyl peroxide is the main active ingredient. This is true for common OTC products such as Proactiv, Oxy, Zenderm, and others. For the most part, it appears that these versions of benzoyl peroxide seem to help, as can be assumed from the popularity and widespread use of many of these poducts.
The article warned however that the claims on many of the OTC products have not been proven with any scientific support. The article continues to point out that an advantage of prescription medications is that they all have solid data and proof of their effectiveness.
In addition, the article goes on to say that the OTC ads may trivialize acne and make it seem that anyone can treat all forms of acne. Acne however is a very complex process and often the help of a dermatologist is warranted.
The article concluded by saying that while the OTC products can definitely help, often times combination therpay is necessary requiring prescription medications and the advice and help of a medical professional.
February 3rd, 2006
Get ready for another entry into the topical benzoyl peroxide family. Due in pharmacies soon, SkinMedica is ready to launch its newest product, NeoBenz Micro.
So, what is different about this topical benzoyl peroxide?
Well, the novel formulation incorporates microsponge technology. The active benzoyl peroxide is incorporated into a microsponge which allows time-released delivery of the medication to dimininsh treatment associated irritation.
Initial studies show no redness or itching at week four of treatment and only 4% of patients reported dryness, stinging or burning.
Look for NeoBenz Micro soon.
February 2nd, 2006
We have had some recent trouble with pharmacists insisting that patients be enrolled in the iPLEDGE program in order to fill their isotretinoin prescriptions. Please be aware that until March 1, 2006, you are able to fill you prescriptions either by being enrolled in the iPLEDGE program if your prescribing doctor is enrolled OR by providing a prescription with the yellow sticker attached.
So if you have problems with the pharmacist, let them know that iPLEDGE is not fully in effect for another month.
February 1st, 2006
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