Novel approaches in treatment of Acne vulgaris: Patents related to micro/nanoparticulated carrier systems

Acne vulgaris (acne) is chronic inflammatory dermatosis which affects the pilosebaceous unit, with a varied clinical picture including inflammatory and non-inflammatory cutaneous lessions. This multifactorial disease mostly occurs in adolescents; however, it can also affect children and adults. Different therapy options for acne treatment exist, comprising topical, systemic and hormonal agents or a combination thereof. The choice of the therapy depends on various factors, for instance the severity and extent of the disease and site of involvement. Commonly used topical acne therapies include benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, antibiotics, retinoids, azelaic acid, sulfone agents and their combinations. Systemic antibiotics are indicated for use in moderate to severe inflammatory acne and should be used in combination with a topical retinoid and benzoyl peroxide. The available conventional formulations often cause side effects such as skin irritation, dryness, peeling, itching, leading to reduced patient compliance and compromised therapeutical efficacy. Novel drug delivery systems are promising option for improved acne treatment outcome, as they can diminish the side effects caused by the therapeutic agents or can modulate their properties and at the same time offering possibilities for modified release and improved skin penetration of the active substances. The cosmetics manufacturers implement micro/nanotechnology in their formulations, while patent protection for cosmetics has gained more importance over the past decades. This review focuses on micro/nanoparticulated carrier systems that can be used for acne treatment and the published patents concerning them.