Pharmacotherapy of acne.
BACKGROUND
Acne results from the interplay of several pathophysiologic factors, in particular seborrhoea, follicular hyperkeratosis, propionibacteria and inflammation. Recently, it has become clear that inflammatory events are important not only in the course, but also in the initiation of the disease.


OBJECTIVE
The study undertook an evaluation of the effectiveness of currently available pharmacotherapeutic treatment options for acne.


METHODS
After a Medline-based literature search, this article critically reviewed substances used topically (among others, retinoids, antimicrobials, salicylic acid and azelaic acid) and systemically (antibiotics, isotretinoin, hormones and zinc) as well as their combinations with respect to pharmacology, clinical efficacy and side effects.


RESULTS
Modern acne pharmacotherapy provides substances that antagonize one or more of the major pathophysiologic factors of acne. When the clinical picture but also patients' motivation and wishes are appropriately considered, current pharmacotherapy of acne is rational and effective.
Degitz
Klaus
K
Ludwig-Maximilian University, Department of Dermatology and Allergology, Munich, Germany. Klaus.Degitz@lrz.uni-muenchen.de
Ochsendorf
Falk
F
D000152:Acne Vulgaris / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000284:Administration, Oral; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004352:Drug Resistance, Microbial; D004359:Drug Therapy, Combination; D006801:Humans; D012176:Retinoids / Q000627:therapeutic use
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D003879:Dermatologic Agents; D012176:Retinoids; D001585:Benzoyl Peroxide