INTRODUCTION

Topical retinoids are a mainstay in the treatment of acne vulgaris except for the most severe cases. Because acne involves multiple etiologic factors, combination approaches often make up the treatment strategy. Adapalene is a popular choice among topical retinoids due to its favorable efficacy and tolerability profile. Adapalene-BPO is a unique antibiotic-free fixed-dose combination of adapalene 0.1%, benzoyl peroxide 2.5%.

METHODS

The long-term clinical profile of adapalene-BPO was assessed in a multicenter study for efficacy and safety in patients with acne vulgaris. Patients were at least 12 years of age with facial acne composed of 30-100 noninflammatory lesions and 20-50 inflammatory lesions with no active nodules or cysts. Adapalene-BPO was applied once daily for up to 12 months.

RESULTS

At the end of the study, inflammatory lesions were reduced by 76% and noninflammatory lesions were reduced by 70%. More than 80% of patients reported complete, marked or moderate improvement in their acne. The highest cutaneous irritation scores were reported during the first week of treatment and then decreased to baseline levels. At no time during the study were mean cutaneous irritation scores above 1 (mild). Most drug-related adverse events were dermatological (24.3% of patients), and the most commonly reported one was dry skin.

CONCLUSIONS

Adapalene-BPO is a safe and efficacious new agent for the treatment of acne vulgaris.

NURSING IMPLICATIONS

Nurses in the specialized field of dermatology will gain insight into the disease state and treatment options, which will be useful information for patient consultations.

REFERENCES