Approval of triple-combination gel tops most read Healio acne news of 2023
Key takeaways:
- This year the FDA approved the first ever triple-combination gel, IDP-126, for acne.
- The FDA also recommended modifying the iPledge REMS for isotretinoin users.
The FDA’s approval of IDP-126 was the most read Healio acne story this year, followed by coverage of a study finding IDP-126 improves patients’ quality of life compared to vehicle. News regarding the efficacy of M-PDT and clascoterone cream, as well as an update to the FDA’s iPledge recommendations, rounded out 2023’s important acne updates.
Here are five of the most popular Healio acne stories of this year:
FDA approves IDP-126, first triple-combination gel for treatment of acne
On Oct. 20, 2023, the FDA approved Bausch Health’s IDP (Cabtreo) for the treatment of acne in patients aged 12 years and older. Comprised of clindamycin phosphate 1.2%, adapalene 0.15% and benzoyl peroxide 3.1%, IDP-126 is now the first and only fixed-dose, triple-combination approved for the topical treatment of acne. Read more.
Newly approved IDP-126 gel for acne significantly improves patient quality of life
Prior to the FDA’s approval of IDP-126 gel, a study found that the triple-combination topical may improve the quality of life of patients with acne vulgaris compared with vehicle. The study found that disease severity had a higher likelihood of influencing quality of life improvements and IDP-126 lowered disease severity. The categories most improved from treatment included patient emotions, self-perceptions, acne symptoms and socialization. Read more.
M-PDT efficacy similar to isotretinoin in acne vulgaris
Modified 5-aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy was as effective as isotretinoin in the treatment of severe acne with a faster onset, according to a small study. Additionally, patients using M-PDT experienced fewer adverse events compared with isotretinoin-treated patients. Read more.
FDA issues required iPledge REMS modifications to isotretinoin manufacturers
Recently, the FDA issued a notification to isotretinoin manufacturers to modify the iPledge Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy in order to minimize procedural burdens on prescribers, pharmacists and patients. Many of the modifications include the logistics of preventing fetal exposure during isotretinoin use. Read more.
Long-term safety, efficacy of clascoterone cream shown in acne treatment
During the South Beach 2023 Symposium, a speaker presented results from a study showing clascoterone cream 1% demonstrated long-term efficacy and a favorable safety profile in patients aged older than 12 years with acne vulgaris. After 12 months of treatment, 50.3% of patients had clear or almost clear facial acne. Read more.