Switching Retinoids during acne therapy does improve outcomes

Implications: This poster at the 2007 American Academy of Dermatology meeting in Washington, DC indicates that Galderma's product, Adapalene, is as effective as Allergan's product Tazarotene. This is opposite to 2 other studies that have been done in the past indicating that Tazarotene is the most effective retinoid, but it is the least tolerated. This also is contrary to my clinical experience that confirms Tazarotene's superior efficacy.

Further studies will have to be done.

Analysis: I normally use Tazarotene or Adapalene depending on a patients skin type and if they have sensitive skin or not. Eventually I try to get them onto Tazarotene, as it is the most effective retinoid, but also the most irritating. Studies have also shown that it is effective in combination with other topical and oral agents.