Oral Contraceptives for Acne Treatment: Prescribing Practices of US Dermatologists

Tuesday, June 12, 2018

In this edition of the "Peer to Peer" audiocast series, Dr. Vincent DeLeo speaks with Dr. Cynthia L. Chen about the prescribing practices of U.S. dermatologists regarding oral contraceptives (OCPs) for acne treatment.

Dr. Chen describes the results of a recent survey that was used to collect data about the demographics and practice settings of dermatologists who prescribe OCPs in the United States as well as how their knowledge and beliefs about OCPs inform their prescribing practices. She also discusses the use of 4th-generation drospirenone-containing OCPs, which have been shown to be slightly more effective for acne than other combined OCPs but also are associated with an increased risk of venous and thromboembolic events.

Dr. Chen also explains her process for prescribing OCPs for acne treatment, including how to discuss the effects of hormonal treatments with patients.

How to Listen

Podcast Participants

^{Vincent A. DeLeo, MD}

Vincent A. DeLeo, MD, is from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York. He also is the editor in chief of Cutis and the author of more than 200 publications. He is a leading expert on contact dermatitis, sunscreens, and photosensitivity. Dr. DeLeo is a consultant for Estée Lauder.