Posted by Declan on March 18, 2007, at 3:28:05
In reply to Isotretinoin and depression, posted by Klavot on March 17, 2007, at 8:21:03
From the LEF protocol on acne.
Topical retinoids (e.g., Retin-A®, or tretinoin) are available as creams, gels, and solutions. Retinoids are naturally occurring or synthetic compounds that are chemically similar to vitamin A (retinol), which is necessary for skin growth, differentiation, and maintenance. Mild acne responds well to tretinoin, which acts on oil glands and reduces clogged pores. Further, long-term use of tretinoin increases collagen synthesis and the shedding of dead skin, and can produce a more even skin tone. Side effects include burning, stinging, itching, peeling, scaling, dryness, tightness, and reddened skin, sensations which are most noticeable with solutions and least with gels. Topical retinoids are sometimes used with antibiotics; combination therapy is faster acting and less irritating than single therapies (Weiss JS et al 2004).
The retinoid Tazorac® (tazarotene) is available in gel and cream and often used along with a topical antibiotic. It is more effective than tretinoin and Accutane® (isotretinoin) (Guenther LC 2003). Yet another topical medication is adapalene, a “designer” topical retinoid agent that acts rapidly, but has been found to be less effective than tazarotene in a comparison study (Webster GF et al 2002).
poster:Declan
thread:741747
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20070314/msgs/741922.html