Acne Relief In Brief

Isolaz photopneumatic therapy: The "only painless laser treatment for acne" and the only system cleared by FDA to treat comedonal and postular acne, as well as mild to moderate acne (including acne vulgaris), Isolaz comes to aid of non-responders to traditional therapies -- whether topical, antibiotic or another laser -- and patients who had come to rely on Accutane, Aesthera Corporation suggests July 15. Drug maker Roche announced in June it was discontinuing distribution of Accutane (isotretinoin) due to increasing generic competition and the cost of product liability litigation, which have eaten into profits from what once was one of the company's top-selling products (1"The Pink Sheet" Daily, June 26, 2009). The move surprised some dermatologists and created concern that existing demand for isotretinoin could not be met, while Roche assured stakeholders that competing drug manufacturers would be able to supply the market. Regardless, "the bottom line is that physicians and patients need a viable alternative in their battle against acne," according to Aesthera CEO and President Alon Maor. In clinical testing Isolaz awarded immediate results within 24 to 48 hours and an 88% reduction in acne after four treatments without any of the side effects of systemic alternatives, the Pleasanton, Calif. firm says