Notes
- Other options: comedone extraction, intralesional cortisone injection (for papulonodules, cysts), oral contraceptives (esp. anti-androgenic such as cyproterone acetate, Yasmin®), photodynamic therapy, spironolactone (reduces androgen production; 50-200 mg/day); dermabrasion, chemical peels
- Treatment improves cosmesis and psychosocial well-being, and helps prevent further scarring and hyperpigmentation.
- Patients should be forewarned of acne exacerbations in the first month of systemic therapy as deep-seated acne comes to the surface. Also, systemic therapy can require 6 wk before benefits are noted.
- Isotretinoin should be taken with a fatty snack or meal that has some fat in it