Use of drospirenone/ethinyl estradiol (DRSP/EE) among women with acne reduces acne treatment-related resources

Abstract

Background and objective:

Acne is a common dermatologic condition that extends into middle age, particularly among women, and is associated with substantial healthcare resource utilization. Drospirenone (DRSP), a synthetic progestin, has anti-androgenic activity, and women using DRSP 3.0?mg/ethinyl estradiol (EE) 0.02?mg as a 24/4 regimen (DRSP/EE-24/4) for contraception also may use it for treatment of moderate acne. The study used a US national healthcare database to assess acne-related healthcare resource utilization among women aged 18–45 years before (pre-index) and after (post-index) initiation of DRSP/EE-24/4.

Methods:

Resource utilization and costs were evaluated by age group (18–25, 26–35, or 36–45 years) and by type of acne medication (systemic antibiotic, topical, or anti-androgen).

Results:

Data for 1340 women were evaluated. Overall, drug costs, medical costs, and total costs were decreased by 38%, 37%, and 37%, respectively (p?<?0.0001 for all) between the pre-index and post-index periods; significant differences were evident across age groups and acne medication categories. Total costs were significantly decreased for patients (41%) and healthcare plans (36%; p?<?0.0001 for both) overall and across age groups and drug classes. Acne-related claims and number of days using acne medication were reduced (by 37% each; p?<?0.0001 for both).

Study limitations:

The study was retrospective in design and had a limited follow-up period. Database limitations restricted assessment of medication compliance and adherence.

Conclusion:

DRSP/EE-24/4 use was associated with substantial reductions in acne-related healthcare resource utilization, and reductions occurred regardless of age or type of acne medication. DRSP/EE-24/4 therefore represents a cost-effective option for the treatment of acne among women using DRSP/EE-24/4 for oral contraception.