Year: 2025
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This descriptive observational study was conducted in 30 community pharmacies in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, to assess the dispensing of over-the-counter (OTC) acne medications. The most frequently dispensed preparations were hydroquinone + mometasone furoate + tretinoin (40%), followed by salicylic acid + betamethasone (26%). Among the observed combinations, only nicotinamide, salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, adapalene, and clindamycin are considered first-line agents in acne management. At the same time, drugs such as hydroquinone, mometasone furoate, tretinoin, and betamethasone are scheduled H drugs requiring physician supervision. The findings highlight the need for a regulated OTC drug list and the removal of inappropriate combination products to ensure safer and more effective acne treatment.
Authors: Swathi Madhavan, Pugazhenthi Muthusamy
Institution: Annamalai University
Language: English
Subfield: Dermatology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4414475562
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