Some estrogen-progestogen combinations are as effective as antibiotics for treat acne. The two treatments reduced the lesions by 55% and 53% respectively after six months. So says an article in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Researchers have studied the anti-androgenic power (which fights the effects of hyperandrogenism, acne and hirsutism) of certain second, third and fourth generation pills. “These contraceptives slow down the stimulation of the sebaceous glands and reduce the production of sebum which clogs the pores of the skin. This leads to long-term acne regulation” explains Dr. Marie Aléos, vice-president of the National Syndicate of Dermatologists and Venereologists. .
“A contraceptive pill can be offered to women with mild to moderate acne who wish to take an oral contraceptive, but only after other treatments have failed,” she points out. Antibiotics, which reduce inflammation, are used in treatment of attack, within the framework of cures of three months.Their mechanism of action is different from that of hormones.
The role of laboratories
Currently, only one pill is marketed in France with dual marketing authorization (for its contraceptive and acne treatment role), Triafemi. It is not reimbursed by Social Security. The National Medicines Safety Agency (ANSM) indicates that “other pills could obtain the double indication. It is still necessary for the laboratory to request it and for well-conducted studies to demonstrate efficacy on acne” .
The doctors remind all the same that the acne treatment is done in a gradual way and depends on its form. The specific therapeutic approach will only intervene if strict hygiene and local treatments for mild to moderate dermatoses do not work.
About 70% of adolescents and 20% of adults are affected, to varying degrees, by this skin disease, which can have a significant impact.
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