Dermatology

Pharmacology and Treatment

Clinical Evidence of the Endocrinological Influence of a Triphasic Oral Contraceptive Containing Norgestimate and Ethinyl Estradiol in Treating Women with Acne vulgaris

A Pilot Study

Sator P. · Schmidt J.B. · Hönigsmann H.

Author affiliations

Department of Special and Environmental Dermatology, University of Vienna, General Hospital, Vienna, Austria

Keywords: Oral contraceptiveNorgestimateEthinyl estradiolAcne vulgarisSkin hydrationSkin surface lipids

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Dermatology 2003;206:241–248
https://doi.org/10.1159/000068893

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Article / Publication Details

First-Page Preview
Abstract of Pharmacology and Treatment

Received: February 13, 2002
Accepted: August 08, 2002
Published online: April 17, 2003
Issue release date: 2003

Number of Print Pages: 8
Number of Figures: 4
Number of Tables: 3

ISSN: 1018-8665 (Print)
eISSN: 1421-9832 (Online)

For additional information: https://www.karger.com/DRM

Abstract

Background and Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of a triphasic combination oral contraceptive (OC) containing norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol in the treatment of women with acne vulgaris. Methods: 12 female patients were included and 10 completed the trial. Over a period of 6 months, efficacy was assessed by means of facial acne lesion counts, by an investigator’s global assessment, by patients’ self-assessments and by measuring epidermal moisture and skin surface lipids. In addition, a photo documentation was compiled and hormone levels were measured. Results: After 6 months of therapy, the number of acne counts improved. The success of treatment was rated positively both by the investigator and by all patients but one who did not report any changes. Skin surface lipids were significantly reduced while skin hydration showed no significant change. Testosterone and progesterone decreased, and sex-hormone-binding globulin increased, significantly. Conclusion: Our data show that an OC containing norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol is a good therapeutic option for women of fertile age suffering from mild to moderate acne vulgaris.

© 2003 S. Karger AG, Basel



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Article / Publication Details

First-Page Preview
Abstract of Pharmacology and Treatment

Received: February 13, 2002
Accepted: August 08, 2002
Published online: April 17, 2003
Issue release date: 2003

Number of Print Pages: 8
Number of Figures: 4
Number of Tables: 3

ISSN: 1018-8665 (Print)
eISSN: 1421-9832 (Online)

For additional information: https://www.karger.com/DRM

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