What is adapalene, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Adapalene is a gel used for the treatment of acne vulgaris (pimples). The exact mechanism of action is not known. Scientists believe that when adapalene is applied to the skin, it affects the growth of skin cells and thereby reduces the formation of pimples. …
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What is methoxsalen? What is methoxsalen used for? Methoxsalen is a naturally occurring photoactive chemical found in the seeds of the Ammi majus (Umbelliferae) plant and in the roots of Heraclem candicans. It belongs to a group of compounds known as psoralens, or furocoumarins. Methoxsalen lotion is used for treating vitiligo (leucoderma). The exact mechanism of action of methoxsalen is …
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What is topical desoximetasone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Desoximetasone is a synthetic (man-made) corticosteroid that is used on the skin (topically). The naturally occurring corticosteroid is cortisol or hydrocortisone produced by the adrenal gland. Corticosteroids have potent anti-inflammatory actions and also suppress the immune response. The FDA approved desoximetasone in March 1982. What brand names are …
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What is Soriatane (acitretin)? Acitretin is an oral medication used to treat psoriasis. What are the uses for Soriatane (acitretin)? Acitretin is used for treating severe psoriasis in adults. Acitretin should be prescribed only by doctors who have experience in the systemic use of retinoids because it has serious side effects. Is Soriatane (acitretin) available as a generic drug? Yes …
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What is hyaluronic acid? What is hyaluronic acid used for? Restylane is a gel of hyaluronic acid produced by bacteria and used for treating facial wrinkles and folds. It is classified as a medical device. Hyaluronic acid is a substance that is normally produced by the body; it is what gives skin its volume and fullness. The hyaluronic acid in …
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What is deoxycholic acid (Kybella)? What is Kybella used for? Deoxycholic acid (Kybella) is an injectable medication used for reducing fat in the submental region of the face (below the chin). Deoxycholic acid destroys the cell membrane of fat cells causing fat cells to die. Reducing the number of fat cells reduces fat under the chin. It should not be …
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Protopic ointment vs. hydrocortisone: What’s the difference? Protopic ointment (acrolimus) and hydrocortisone are topical drugs (for the skin) used to treat atopic dermatitis (eczema). Hydrocortisone is also used for the relief of itching and inflammation caused by a wide variety of skin conditions (for example, insect bites and allergic reactions). Protopic Ointment and hydrocortisone belong to different drug classes. Protopic …
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What is mometasone, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Mometasone is a synthetic (man-made) glucocorticoid (steroid) that is used on the skin to relieve itching and inflammation of eczema, dermatitis, allergy and other skin rashes. The naturally-occurring glucocorticoid is cortisol or hydrocortisone which is produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Drugs within the same class as …
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What is topical fluorouracil, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Topical fluorouracil is a drug that is used to treat conditions of the skin in which there is rapid multiplication (division) of cells, for example, skin cancer. In order to multiply or divide, cells must produce DNA for each new cell. The DNA is critical since it is …
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What is ciclopirox, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ciclopirox is a synthetic broad-spectrum antifungal agent that inhibits the growth of dermatophytes, a type of fungus that grows on the skin, hair, and nails. When applied to skin a very small percentage is absorbed into the body. It was approved for use in the U.S. by the FDA …
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