Pharmacist Edition

Acne is among the most common dermatological disorders seen by dermatologists, affecting approximately 85% of people between the ages of 12 and 24 years. The use of adjunctive cleansers and moisturizers can help mitigate treatment side effects and subsequently enhance therapeutic efficacy.

Eczema is a chronic relapsing dermatitis and, as such, it is imperative to maintain the hydration and barrier function of the skin in these patients with daily moisturizer use. This article discusses TEWL, ceramide and urea based moisturizers, and other ways to maintain barrier function.

Itch is a very common feature in a variety of skin conditions. Idiopathic or non-specific itch is also common, and presents a challenge for dermatologists to manage. Diagnosis, treatment, and management strategies for various itch are discussed in this article.

This article focuses on topical D3 vitamin analogues for the treatment of psoriasis. Therapeutic efficacy, toxicity, patient adherence, combination therapy, and the family physician's role in psoriasis treatment are covered.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a very common sexually transmitted disease that is associated with a number of benign, premalignant, and frankly malignant lesions of the anogenital tract. Various treatments as well as new vaccines for HPV are discussed.

This article discusses the rationale behind various topical treatments for acne to increase adherence and optimize outcomes. Efficacy, safety, antibiotic resistance, onset of action, and combination therapies are covered.

This article describes how pharmacists can play an important role in providing for patients with their skin concerns and counselling patients on effective management and behavioral strategies as well as prescribing. Reactive and proactive communication approaches are described.

The cosmeceutical industry has undergone phenomenal growth over the past decade, and much of this expansion can be attributed to an aging population wanting to sustain a youthful appearance. Keeping abreast of the latest findings and newest product offerings has become important for providing accurate advice to patients. Products supported by scientific research can be effective as an adjunct to therapy.

There are many forms of hyperhidrosis, affecting a large proportion of the general population. Although historically challenging to manage, more treatment options are available these days. The pros and cons of various treatments are discussed.

Head lice infestation is a common problem for children in Canada. Diagnosis, and treatment are discussed as well as the problem of heritable resistance, and alternate treatments.

The role and importance of moisturizer in managing and controlling the symptoms of atopic dermatitis. As atopic dermatitis is a chronic condition, successful management requires a multipronged approach that includes lifestyle modification, adaptations to skin care practices, and medical intervention.

Herpes labialis (Cold sores), its diagnostic features, prevention techniques are discussed as well as its typical course. Treatment options, non-prescription and prescription that may speed up recovery are also covered.

A review of corticosteroids, including use, adverse effects, vehicle, generic vs brand name drugs. Physicians and pharmacists alike should be aware of the importance and the difference of various vehicles when prescribing topical corticosteroids.

External genital warts (EGW) are a common infection caused primarily by human papillomavirus (HPV) types 6 and 11. This article discusses the pathogenesis of EGW, impact on patients, therapeutics, vaccination, and other topics.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic, waxing and waning, often symmetric inflammatory eruption that is characterized by pruritus and xerosis. This article discusses the role of creams in normalizing the barrier function early, and preventing inflammation processes from starting.

Actinic keratoses (AKs), or solar keratoses, are pre-malignant cutaneous lesions that predominantly manifest in sun-exposed areas. This article covers treatment regimens, sun protection, and the role that physicians play in improving patient awareness.

Atopic eczema is a chronic condition and a long view is necessary for disease control and management. This article discusses the important role of the skin barrier and how it may be a target for therapeutics in treating atopic eczema.

Condylomata acuminata (genital or venereal warts) pose a significant health concern, especially amongst young adults. Recent therapeutic advances such as topical immunomodulatory agents and a prophylactic vaccines have significantly broadened the options for management.

Hair loss is a common dermatological problem that affects a large segment of the population both physically and psychologically. Currently, only one topical agent is approved for treatment of hair loss in men, although other treatments are being clinically investigated.

Headlice is extremely common, affecting 1 in 10 children. Appropriate treatment, counselling, and management techniques are discussed in this article as well as the most common causes of treatment failure.

Psoriasis, its diagnostic features, and impact on the patient's quality of life are discussed as well as the most common topical treatments for psoriasis.

This article delves into appropriate use of topical therapies for acne treatment. Appropriate agent selection, tolerance, adherence, follow-up, and considerations like complexity of treatment are discussed.

Sunscreens serve an important role in overall sun protection. Used in conjunction with other sun protection measures such as clothing, hats and sunglasses, they form an important layer of protection.

Hand dermatitis (HD) is a common skin disorder affecting individuals of all ages. This article discusses diagnostics, individualizing treatments, lifestyle modifications, and outcomes.

Oral contraceptives (OCs) have been used for many years by dermatologists as a treatment option for women with acne. The proven therapeutic benefits of OCs extend a valuable alternative to physicians for the treatment of acne.

Increasingly, patients are seeking medical consultation for the management of photodamage, actinic keratoses (AKs), and nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC), which is now a global epidemic. A comparative analysis of various treatment modalities are shown.

A summary of a panel discussion between 4 established dermatologists at Dermatology Update in Whistler, British Columbia. An effort to establish a professional review process for OTC products, as the demand for clarity is increasingly demanded from consumers, and dermatologists are asked to opine on these non-prescription products more commonly.

Skin Treatments Introduced in 2012 including CIP-Isotretinoin capsule Epuris™(in Canada) Absorica™(in US), Lidocaine 7% + tetracaine 7% cream Pliaglis®, Collagenase clostridium histolyticum Xiaflex®, C1 esterase inhibitor (human) Cinryze®, Ipilimumab Yervoy™, and Vemurafenib tablets Zelboraf™.

Personal care in Canada is a $5.0 billion industry that offers thousands of competing products, many of which make skin care-related claims. A new paradigm for reviewing non-prescription products.