CDT Dermatologic Pharmacology & Medications Flashcards

What class of medication is isotretinoin (Accutane)?

Answer: Systemic retinoid

Isotretinoin is a systemic retinoid (vitamin A derivative) that treats severe nodular acne by reducing sebum production and normalizing follicular keratinization.

What mandatory US risk management program must patients and providers enroll in before isotretinoin can be prescribed?

Answer: iPLEDGE REMS program

The iPLEDGE REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy) program is mandatory for isotretinoin because of its severe teratogenicity risk.

What is the mechanism of action of topical calcineurin inhibitors like tacrolimus (Protopic)?

Answer: Block T-cell activation to reduce inflammation

Calcineurin inhibitors block T-cell activation and inflammatory cytokine release, treating atopic dermatitis without causing the skin atrophy seen with steroids.

Which oral antibiotic is most commonly prescribed to treat inflammatory acne in the US?

Answer: Doxycycline

Doxycycline is the most widely prescribed oral antibiotic for inflammatory acne due to its combined antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties against C. acnes.

What is the primary mechanism of action of benzoyl peroxide in acne treatment?

Answer: Kills bacteria by releasing free oxygen radicals

Benzoyl peroxide kills C. acnes bacteria by releasing free oxygen radicals that create an anaerobic-hostile environment, while also having comedolytic effects.

Which systemic dermatologic medication requires monthly monitoring of liver function tests and fasting lipid panels?

Answer: Oral isotretinoin

Isotretinoin can elevate liver enzymes and triglycerides, requiring monthly blood monitoring of liver function and lipid levels throughout treatment.