PIPELINE PREVIEWS

April 2011 | Volume 10 | Issue 4 | Features | 434 | Copyright © April 2011


Abstract

Pipeline Previews brings to you information on the newest drugs and medical products as they become available to the dermatologic community. This department may include additional information from the manufacturers, plus reports from physicians who wish to share their clinical experience with these new products. In addition, we will inform our readers about the latest drugs receiving Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval. We trust you will find this information beneficial to your practice and research.

Resveratrol-Containing Gel for Acne

A recent pilot study showed the positive therapeutic effects of resveratrol, a natural phytoalexin produced by grapes and other plants, on acneic skin. In this single-blind study, which enrolled 20 patients affected by acne vulgaris, Resveratrol was incorporated in a carboxymethylcellulose-based gel and applied daily as a solo treatment on the right side of the face for 60 days, while the hydrogel vehicle was applied to the left side of the face as a control. The number and type of lesions were recorded for each patient and the Global Acne Grading System (GAGS) score before treatment was compared with the end of study score. In addition, using follicular biopsy, areas of acneic skin were prepared for histopathology and the average area occupied by microcomedones at pre- and post-treatment was compared.
At the conclusion of the study, all patients reported to be satisfied with the treatment and no adverse effects were reported. Clinical evaluation showed a 53.75 percent mean reduction in the GAGS score on the resveratrol-treated sides of the face compared with 6.10 percent on the vehicle-treated sides of the face. Histologic analysis showed a 66.7 percent mean reduction in the average area of microcomedones on the resveratroltreated sides of the face, compared with a 9.7 percent reduction on the vehicle-treated side of the face-a clinically relevant and statistically significant decrease of lesions in areas treated with resveratrol-containing hydrogel.
The full report can be found in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology, 2011;12(2):133-141.

Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray

Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray is a comprehensive acne clearing system which combines Salicylic Acid 2% USP along with the exfoliation benefits of Glycolic Acid. It is formulated to aggressively clear skin without over-drying. The Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray is sold in a spray container to ease treatment of acne-prone chest and hard to reach back acne.
Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray advertises itself as unique in that it focuses on clearing skin blemishes as well as optimizing overall skin health. Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray combines Salicylic Acids USP 2%, which targets comedones, and Ultra Pure Glycolic Acid in 5% and 10% strength levels, which exfoliates the treated area, with witch hazel - a rich source of natural tannins that work with the ultra pure glycolic acid and salicylic acid to provide an effective and pleasant treatment virtually free of the dryness and discomfort that may be associated with other acne medications. Witch hazel also delivers astringents and toning benefits.
Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray also touts that its formula penetrates through the oils in the follicles, allowing accelerated removal of dead skin cells, dirt and debris and reduces the number of acne blemishes (papules & pustules) and blackheads (comedones). It also allows the skin to heal while preventing new acne breakouts from forming.
Gly-Sal Acne Body Spray further declares that its fragrance-free and colorant-free formula fights body acne that can be caused by sweating and frictions from athletic gear and clothing, helps clear and prevent acne, controls oil, reduces redness, reduces breakouts and clogged pores, reduces inflammation of the sebaceous glands, exfoliates the surface of the skin as well as the follicular walls, helps enhance skin clarity, increases cell turnover of the follicle walls and balances acid activity with hydrating ingredients.

FDA Approves Natroba for Head Lice

The FDA has approved Natroba (spinosad) Topical Suspension 0.9% for the treatment of head lice infestation in patients ages four years and older based on the results of two multicenter, randomized, active-controlled studies. These studies enrolled a total of 552 subjects who each received a 10-minute treatment with Natroba. The subjects were given a second treatment one week later if live lice were seen. 86 percent of subjects were lice-free fourteen days after the final treatment as compared to 44 percent of the control group.
Common adverse events reported include redness or irritation of the eyes and skin. Natroba is not approved for use in children younger than four years, and contains benzyl alcohol that has been associated with serious adverse reactions and death in neonates and low-birth weight infants.