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 …
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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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What is ustekinumab, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Ustekinumab is an injectable biologic drug that suppresses the immune system and is used for the treatment of psoriasis. It is an antibody that binds to interleukin (IL)-12 and IL-23, two chemicals produced by cells in the body that stimulate immune reactions. Scientists believe that psoriasis is caused by …
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What is tea tree oil? What is tea tree oil used for? Tea tree oil is topical antiseptic. It contains Terpinen-4-ol, which has antifungal and antimicrobial properties. What brand names are available for tea tree oil? Melaleuca oil Is tea tree oil available as a generic drug? Yes Do I need a prescription for tea tree oil? No What are …
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What is isotretinoin, and how does it work (mechanism of action)? Isotretinoin is an oral drug used for the treatment and prevention of severe acne. Acne is caused by inflammation of the skin. It primarily affects teenagers, but it also affects adults. Severe acne causes permanent scarring of the skin. The inflammation is caused in part by an increased secretion …
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What is topical clindamycin? Clindamycin is an antibiotic used for treating several infections. It is effective against several types of bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Propionibacterium acnes. Why is topical clindamycin prescribed to patients? Clindamycin topical (for application to the skin) is available as gels, foam, lotion, solution, and swab for treating acne. What brand …
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