Study Shows Once-Daily Morning Retinoid Acne Regimen Simplifies Treatment Without Sacrificing Results

Main Category: Dermatology
Article Date: 07 Jul 2010 - 10:00 PDT

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From the minute they wake until the minute they sleep, today's teenagers have busy, demanding schedules. Life may be hectic, but an acne care routine doesn't have to get in the way, according to a new study published in the July 2010 issue of Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Researchers found that acne sufferers looking to simplify their treatment regimen without sacrificing results have further proof they can use a safe, easy and effective once-daily treatment of Retin-A Micro® Pump in the morning along with benzoyl peroxide. For teens constantly on-the-go, having this simple once-daily acne regimen can make all the difference between using their medication correctly - or not using it at all.

"Historically, it was thought that tretinoin would degrade in the presence of light and benzoyl peroxide. Therefore, some people used it only as part of a nighttime regimen and without the simultaneous use of benzoyl peroxide," said investigator Richard Fried MD, PhD, Clinical Director, Yardley Dermatology Associates, Yardley, PA. "However, this concern is alleviated with the improved tretinoin formulation found in Retin-A Micro® Pump, which can now be part of simpler protocol for acne treatment."

"These newly published study results are significant for both acne patients and dermatologists as they reinforce the ability to develop skin care regimens that cater to each individual patients' lifestyle -- which is important as simple protocols provide the best chance for clear, beautiful skin," continued Dr. Fried.

Retin-A Micro® Pump is the only acne medication to combine tretinoin, the number one prescribed retinoid, with patented microsphere technology. The microspheres gradually release tretinoin over time to reduce irritation and help absorb excess facial oil to reduce facial shine. It is now available in a unique, sleek pump that delivers a consistent amount of medication, making it easy to use and less likely to over use.

About the Study

The 12-week, randomized, investigator-blinded study was performed to compare two acne treatment regimens. The study enrolled 247 patients, at least 12 years of age with moderate facial acne vulgaris. Researchers assigned approximately half to a morning/morning regimen of both Retin-A Micro® Pump 0.04% and 5% benzoyl peroxide wash and the other half to a morning/evening regimen, 5% benzoyl peroxide wash applied in the morning and Retin-A Micro® Pump 0.04% applied in the evening. Investigator observations and photograph assessments were made at baseline, weeks three, six and 12, to evaluate changes in acne severity.

Study results demonstrated no significant differences between the morning/morning and morning/evening treatment groups, indicating both regimens were comparable in efficacy and tolerability. The data was published in the July 2010 issue of the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology.

Retin-A Micro® Pump Fair Balance

Retin-A Micro® (tretinoin gel) microsphere, 0.04% and 0.1% are indicated for topical application in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Important Safety Information:

Retin-A Micro® (tretinoin gel) microsphere, 0.04% and 0.1% is contraindicated in individuals with a history of sensitivity reactions to any of its components. The skin of certain individuals may become excessively dry, red, swollen or blistered. If warranted, these individuals should temporarily reduce the amount or frequency of application, or discontinue use temporarily or all together. Patients should be encouraged to minimize exposure to sunlight, including sunlamps, and to use a sunscreen with a SPF of 15 or higher and protective clothing. The most common adverse reactions to Retin-A Micro® 0.04% and 0.1% were limited to mild or moderate irritation of the skin. 1.3% of patients using Retin-A Micro® 0.04% and 6% of patients using Retin-A Micro® 0.1% discontinued due to irritation. Retin-A Micro® 0.04% and 0.1% showed a visible reduction in total mean lesion count in as little as 2 weeks with full benefits seen after 7 weeks.

Source:
Ortho Dermatologics

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