The use of topical retinoids for inflammatory acne: a review of the pharmacoeconomic considerations.

Few pharmacoeconomic studies exist regarding the use of topical retinoids for inflammatory acne vulgaris. Those pharmacoeconomic studies that do exist predictably involve new entrants (topical tazarotene in various formulations). The use of topical retinoids in combination with antimicrobial agents constitutes cost-effective therapy for inflammatory acne. The growing U.S. trend toward use of isotretinoin for less-severe forms of acne instead of topical retinoid-based combination therapy is problematic from clinical and cost perspectives. More pharmacoeconomic studies that consider the importance of compliance are necessary for clinicians and managed care professionals to make informed choices about the treatment of inflammatory acne.