Acne Management Pathway

Question 1

First line acne management

Answer 1

Topical retinoid or benzoyl peroxide

Question 2

Second line acne management

Answer 2

Topical combination therapy (topical antibiotic, benzoyl peroxide, topical retinoid)

Question 3

Third line acne management

Answer 3

Oral antibiotic (usually tetracycline)

Question 4

What can be used as an alternative to a tetracycline in pregnancy?

Answer 4

Erythromycin

Question 5

What is the maximum length of oral antibiotic therapy for acne?

Answer 5

3 months

Question 6

Should you use topical antibiotics and oral antibiotics at the same time?

Answer 6

No

Question 7

Should a topical retinoid or benzoyl peroxide and oral therapy be co-prescribed?

Answer 7

Yes
Reduces risk of resistance

Question 8

What can be used instead of oral antibiotics in women?

Answer 8

COCP (in conjunction with topical therapies)

Question 9

Fourth line acne management

Answer 9

Oral isotretinoin (retinoid)

Question 10

Are topical and oral retinoids contraindicated in pregnancy?

Answer 10

Yes