Indications of Hormonal Contraception in the Treatment of Acne

Overview

The review summarizes arguments in favour of the use of combined hormonal contraception inthe treatment of acne. Hormonal contraception interferes favourably with androgen metabolism,the excessive production of which plays a significant part in the etiology of acne. This year in theCzech Republic a new indication for a contraceptive containing norgestimate and ethinyl estradiol(Pramino) was released for the treatment of medium severe forms of acne in women asking forhormonal contraception. The basis for approval of the indication are pharmacological properties ofa combination of hormones which are part of this preparation. The article contains a review ofclinical and pharmacological data which provide evidence of the effect of Pramino in the treatmentof acne and the effect on androgen metabolism.

Key words:
hormonal contraception - acne