Acne

Question 1

What are the patient factors should be assessed?

Answer 1

If any of the following apply, then refer to MD:

Under 12
Family history of scarring acne
Drug-induced acne
New onset above the age of 30
High levels of anxiety and low self-esteem

Question 2

What are some red flags for acne?

Answer 2

Moderate to severe symptoms (nodules, pustules)
Widespread distribution (areas other than the face)
Suspect rosacea, perioral dermatitis, folliculitis
Signs of hyperandrogenism
Systemic symptoms with sudden onset

Question 3

What are symptoms of mild acne (pharmacist realm)?

Answer 3

Closed comedones and some papules or pustules

Lesion count under 30

No nodules or cysts

Question 4

What are some treatments for mild acne?

Answer 4

BP

Retinoids

Combination (BP+Retinoids)

Question 5

When should the pharmacist follow up on treatment?

Answer 5

8 weeks,

if some improvement seen, refill for 6 months

If no or little improvement, try a different product

If no improvement and it has gotten worse, refer