Healio profiled a new universal classification system for topical corticosteroids that could reduce confusion across countries. The system was published in the May Journal of Drugs in Dermatology in an article entitled, “Topical Corticosteroid Potencies: Reimagining A New Universal Classification System”. The authors, two Canadian pharmacists and dermatologist Howard I. Maibach, MD, created the classification system based on the general consensus of five unique systems: U.S., Japanese, American Society of Health System Pharmacists, Anatomical Therapeutic Classification of the World Health Organization, and the British National Formulary. The authors believe a universal classification system could provide more consistent and clinically relevant information, and reduce knowledge gaps and fear in prescribing topical corticosteroids. The authors’ analysis showed only the U.S. and the American Society of Health System Pharmacists’ systems ranked potency by vehicle formulation.
Healio also published an article about a May JDD study that showed long-term efficacy of a triple-combination acne gel. The study, “Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%/Adapalene 0.15%/ Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1% for Acne: Results From A 6-Month Open-Label Study,” was conducted by Zoe Diana Draelos, MD, and colleagues. The study found 68% of participants achieved treatment success, which was noted as a 2-grade or more IGA score reduction and clear or almost clear skin. In addition, these participants experienced significant reductions in their inflammatory or noninflammatory lesions. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation and post-inflammatory erythema also decreased by 77-88%, and investigator-assessed scarring severity decreased by 33%. Participants experienced no adverse events and there were no increases in skin dryness or issues with tolerability. In addition, researchers found no development of antibiotic resistance with this long-term treatment.
HCP Live interviewed an author of a JDD study on the efficacy and safety of deucravacitinib. The study, “A Review of the Safety and Efficacy of Deucravacitinib for Plaque Psoriasis: An Expert Consensus Panel,” shared the findings of a panel of 10 dermatologists
with expertise in managing psoriasis. The panel drafted consensus statements on the use of deucravacitinib, which include recommended laboratory monitoring. The panel concluded that deucravacitinib, when compared with traditional JAK inhibitors, has a superior safety profile. In addition, the panel found no evidence of deucravacitinib inducing abnormalities in lab work. As a result, the panel concluded that baseline and/or ongoing lab work is unnecessary.
