Abstract
ABSTRACT: A drug is a particular substance in physiology that exerts an effect when ingested or otherwise introduced into the body. Drugs may be administered in a variety of constitutions from capsules, injections, creams, ointments, inhalants, liquids, and dermal patches. These constitutions can be administered via various routes including topical, parenteral, inhalation, subcutaneous injection, intramuscular injection, or intravenously. The purpose of this column is to direct the reader's attention to some of the more common drugs used in dermatology, the mechanism of their action, their usage and function, and any standard-of-care alternatives.
Acne vulgaris (AV) is a disease of the pilosebaceous follicles whose cause is multifactorial. In the last decade, there has only been one new topical agent approved by the Food and Drug Administration, namely, dapsone 5% gel, for the treatment of AV. Herein, we discuss this medication and its place in the treatment of AV.