Patients with
acne have a reason to smile new combinations of medicines for local use have
been found to be effective.
Treatment of acne is directed towards its cause. Acne
occurs due to the following reasons:
Increased activity of the sebaceous or oil glands
Blockage of the pores due to increased cellular
proliferation, resulting in the formation of comedone or blackhead
Growth of a bacterium called P. acnes within the
hair follicles
Inflammation
Drugs used in acne act through different mechanisms:
Antimicrobials like benzoyl peroxide, clindamycin,
erythromycin and sodium sulfcetamide inhibit the growth of P. acnes
Dapsone acts by reducing inflammation. It may also
reduce the levels and activity of P. acnes.
Benzoyl peroxide acts against the bacteria and
exerts a mild effect on comedones.
Retinoids such as adapalene, tazarotene and
tretinoin act at multiple sites to treat acne. They reduce the cellular
proliferation, inhibit formation of comedones and have anti-inflammatory
effect. Retinoids are now available as emollient creams and microsphere gel to
reduce irritation and improve efficacy.
If a
combination of medications is used, it will not only be effective through multiple
mechanisms, it will also help to simplify treatment and improve patient
adherence to treatment.
A combination of benzoyl peroxide and clindamycin
has been found to be more effective than benzoyl peroxide alone. Benzoyl
peroxide, through its effect on bacteria, may also help to reduce bacterial
resistance when used in combination.