The Role of Benzoyl Peroxide in the New Treatment Paradigm for Acne

June 2013 | Volume 12 | Issue 6 | Supplement Individual Articles | 73 | Copyright © June 2013


Leon H. Kircik MD

Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York, NY
Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Physicians Skin Care, PLLC, Louisville, KY

CONCLUSION

As concerns about antibiotic resistance have continued to evolve, so has the management of various diseases, including acne vulgaris. The use of BP, especially in combination with topical antibacterials such as clindamycin, has emerged as an important strategy for reducing the risk of developing bacterial resistance. However, data suggest that the potent bactericidal effects of BP can quickly diminish P acnes colonization without the need for the use of additional topical antibiotic. Using BP in conjunction with a topical retinoid such as adapalene rather than in combination with an antibiotic may be a reasonable treatment strategy. The once-daily fixed combination formulation of adapalene 0.1% and BP 2.5% is a proven effective, convenient option for acne management that targets multiple aspects of the pathogenesis of acne. Therefore, we may have to reconsider the role of topical antibiotics such as clindamycin in the new treatment paradigm of acne.

DISCLOSURES

Dr. Kircik has served as an advisor, investigator, consultant, and speaker for Galderma, Allergan, Bayer, LeoPharma, Promius Pharma, Quinnova, Stiefel/GSK, Taro, Valeant, and Warner Chilcott.

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AUTHOR CORRESPONDENCE

Leon H. Kircik MDwedoderm@yahoo.com
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