The role of combined oral contraceptives containing norgestimate for acne vulgaris treatment: a review: The European Journal of Contraception & Reproductive Health Care: Vol 0, No 0
Abstract
Introduction: Both the Food and Drugs Administration and the European Medicine Agency (EMA) have approved the use of a triphasic combined oral contraceptive (COC) containing ethinyl-oestradiol (EE) and norgestimate (NGM) for the treatment of acne vulgaris in women requiring effective contraception. COCs can target sebum production and may also play a role in reducing follicular hyperkeratinization.
Results: The specific advantages of using an anti-androgenic progestin such as NGM in this condition have been demonstrated in this review, with the lowest venous thrombosis risk in the COC scenario, as established by the EMA, associated with a very satisfactory cycle control. The results of a pooled analysis of published data (n= 163 vs. n= 161 treated subjects) shows a significant effect compared to placebo of a higher than 50% reduction, in terms of inflammatory lesions (from 19.0 to 8.2), comedones (from 35.2 to 17.7) and total lesions (from 54.3 to 25.9) count.
Conclusions: The choice of a triphasic combination of EE/NGM seems to be a reference, highly effective, easy-to-use and safe therapeutic strategy for acne vulgaris, alone or in combination with different targeted drugs.
SHORT CONDENSATION
Triphasic ethinyl-oestradiol and norgestimate are on-label for the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris worldwide, in women requiring effective contraception. This combination showed a significant effect compared to placebo of more than 50% reduction, in terms of inflammatory lesions, comedones and total number of lesions.
Disclosure statement
Mr. Grandi has received honoraria for sponsored lectures and participation in advisory boards from Bayer AG, Teva/Theramex, Exeltis, Organon, Italfarmaco, Opocrin and Gedeon Richter. The authors have no other relevant relationship or financial involvement with any organization or entity that has a financial interest or conflict of interest in the subject matter or material discussed in the manuscript other than those disclosed.
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