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Reloxin – A Potential Botox Killer

admin — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 16:48:00 +0000

Allergan introduced Botox in 2002 when the FDA approved its use for temporarily improving the appearance of “frown lines” between the brows. Since then, millions of men and women every year have received the injections. Allergan has enjoyed the success of its wrinkle-fighting product, claiming $1.2 billion in revenues for 2007 alone, and the company reports increased sales numbers in 2008. Despite the success of Botox, a new product called Reloxin may soon replace it as the age-defying drug of choice.

Seeing the popularity, demand, and profitability, Medicis Pharmaceutical has decided to enter the anti-wrinkle market with its product Reloxin. The company has licensed Reloxin from its French maker Ipsen. The product has actually been in use in the U.K., New Zealand, and other countries for years now, but Medicis Pharmaceutical sees the U.S. potential for the drug, and has presented it to the FDA for approval.

Reloxin has been rumored to work more quickly and to last longer than Botox. However, the initial studies have failed to definitively show this. In fact, doctors in Europe and South America who have injected both drugs have noticed little to no difference in the lifespan of the two. There are, however, patients and doctors who are completely convinced that Reloxin injections last much longer.

Aside from product effectiveness, some doctors have claimed that Dysport (as Reloxin is known in other countries) is the cheaper option between Botox and Reloxin, which may cause patients to request Reloxin, especially during a difficult economic time like now.

The FDA is expected to make its decision regarding the approval of Reloxin later this year. If Reloxin does turn out to be a product that is more affordable and lasts longer than Botox, Allergan can expect to see sales plummet.

Finding the Right Skin Treatment Puts a Whole New Complexion on Things

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:59:00 +0000

As teens, we worry about our skin — excess oil, pimples, and acne. When we get older, we still worry about our skin, only then it’s wrinkles, brown spots, and other signs of aging.

Regardless of which group you fall into, your doctor or dermatologist can help by pointing you towards a suitable skin care product that will help.

And here at eDrugstore.md, we can help by making prescription skin care products available at the lowest prices on the Internet. And we can offer a free medical consultation so you can get a hassle-free prescription from the comfort of wherever you happen to be.

Acne Skin Care Products

Acne is the single most common skin care problem in the US with more than 40 million sufferers. So you can imagine the prescription drug industry’s interest in developing skin treatments that offer relief to so many patients.

Over-the-counter skin care products work for some. But for those with more serious and stubborn acne, there are really only a handful of prescription skin care products proven to work.

One of them is the active ingredient tretinoin, found in Retin-A Micro gel. Tretinoin loosens acne plugs and forces them out of the skin. It also helps keep skin cells from sticking together inside the follicles. This prevents new plugs from forming, which prevents new acne lesions. Extensive research has proven it works for most patients with acne.

And because Retin-A is a topical gel, it’s easy to use and causes minimal irritation. Although it can take some weeks to show visible results, most users do see significant improvement in their skin condition.

To learn more about this effective and very popular skin care product, visit our Retin-A Frequently Asked Questions page.

Order Retin-A Micro Gel

Anti-Aging Skin Care Products

Did you know that 85% of the lines, wrinkles and other skin damage we attribute to aging are actually caused by the sun? Only 15% is caused by the natural aging process.

These two types of aging may look the same but they are not. The sun damage is called photodamage, caused by chronic exposure to UV rays over many years. This is an important distinction because it affects how skin treatment products work.

Renova cream targets the damage cause by sun exposure… that cruel 85% that ages us prematurely. It’s a skin treatment that reduces the look of fine lines and wrinkles using the natural power of Vitamin A to replace old damaged skin with new, healthier-looking skin.

Within just a few months, most users notice their skin is getting smoother and softer. Then fine lines start to look fainter and brown spots may even fade.

It’s one of the few skin care products genuinely proven to reduce wrinkles and lines on the face. And because its active ingredient is tretinoin (the same ingredient used in Retin-A Micro), it works as an acne skin treatment, too.

To learn more about Renova skin care, visit our Renova Frequently Asked Questions page.

Order Renova

All of these skin care products require a prescription from either your doctor or from our licensed medical team here at eDrugstore.md. Please select the skin treatment product you’re interested in and our secure online ordering system will walk you through the process of getting a prescription.

Retin-A Micro® FAQs: Acne Medicine With a Difference

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:54:00 +0000

Retin-A Micro® FAQs: Acne Medicine With a Difference

Q:	What is Retin-A Micro?
A:	Retin-A Micro is an oil-free prescription acne medicine in a gel formula. According to the manufacturer, its Microsponge® system is designed to minimize the irritation commonly experienced with the highest strength of tretinoin, the main ingredient in Retin-A Micro.

Q:	How does the Microsponge® system work?
A:	Microspheres are tiny, round particles. They hold tretinoin in the Microsponge® system. The microspheres hold the tretinoin acne medicine in reserve, allowing the skin to absorb small amounts of it over time. Dermatologists who conducted the clinical studies believe this may be why most Retin-A Micro patients experience little or no irritation. The microspheres themselves remain on top of the skin and are washed off when you wash your face.

Q:	What can Retin-A Micro do for my skin that over-the-counter acne medicines can’t?
A:	Many acne medicines promise to "cure" your acne, but they usually don’t achieve the results you’re hoping for. That’s because nothing can "cure" acne. But Retin-A Micro can help control it.

Q:	What’s the difference between Retin-A Micro and RETIN-A?
A:	Both RETIN-A and RETIN-A MICRO contain the same active ingredient (tretinoin) but only Retin-A Micro offers the benefits of tretinoin with the microsphere delivery system, which irritates the skin much less. Retin-A Micro is a water-based gel that can be applied immediately after you wash your face, unlike RETIN-A, which requires a 20 to 30 minute waiting period. Retin-A Micro also reduces the appearance of facial shine.

Q:	Are there different concentrations of Retin-A Micro available?
A:	Retin-A Micro is currently available in two concentrations, 0.04% and 0.1%. Your doctor or dermatologist can decide which acne medicine is right for you.

Q:	How do I get Retin-A Micro?
A:	A doctor or other healthcare professional must prescribe Retin-A Micro. You can get a free medical consultation from a licensed physician when you order Retin-A Micro at eDrugstore.md. It is available at the guaranteed lowest prices here: Retin-A Micro

Q:	How safe is Retin-A Micro as an acne medicine?
A:	Retin-A Micro has been approved by the U.S. FDA. And it’s backed by RETIN-A’s 30-year track record of safe and effective acne medicines and treatments.

Q:	Why is Retin-A Micro a yellow color?
A:	The yellow appearance of Retin-A Micro gel is the result of the active ingredient, tretinoin, which is a yellow powder. The color is more noticeable in Retin-A Micro 0.1% because of the higher concentration of tretinoin.

Q:	If it’s a gel acne medicine, why does Retin-A Micro look like a cream?
A:	Retin-A Micro gel has microspheres suspended in it. The microspheres have an opaque powder appearance that makes the gel look more like a cream.

Q:	How does Retin-A Micro work?
	That isn’t precisely known, but researchers believe that Retin-A Micro attacks acne in two different ways. First, it loosens existing acne plugs beneath the skin so they can move onto your skin’s surface and be washed away. Second, Retin-A Micro helps prevent future outbreaks by keeping skin cells from sticking together within the skin follicles. This prevents new plugs from forming, which prevents new acne lesions from forming.

Q:	What kind of results should I expect with Retin-A Micro?
A:	All acne medicine treatments take patience and dedication. Improvements will happen gradually, but over time you should notice significant changes. Up to seven weeks of treatment may be needed before you see consistent results. Clinical studies showed Retin-A Micro significantly improved patients’ acne by 12 weeks.

Q:	What are the possible side effects of Retin-A Micro?
A:	It’s normal to briefly feel a warmth or stinging when you apply the gel. The most common side effect with Retin-A Micro is skin irritation such as redness, burning, stinging, itching, dryness and peeling. Some of these side effects may go away after you have used Retin-A Micro acne medicine for a few weeks. If the side effects become troublesome, your doctor may change your dosage.
	There may be some mild discomfort or peeling during the early weeks of treatment. Some patients also notice that their skin begins to take on a blush. These reactions happen to about half of the people using Retin-A Micro. If this happens to you, it’s just your skin getting used to Retin-A Micro. This usually improves by four weeks after starting treatment.

Q:	How often should I apply the acne medicine?
A:	For best results, stick to your doctor’s advice. It is recommended that you apply Retin-A Micro once daily in the evening after washing your face thoroughly with mild facial cleanser or a gentle alcohol-free cleansing cream. Pat dry. Be sure to use the dosage of Retin-A prescribed by your doctor. Do not over apply. Using too much acne medicine of any sort may cause irritation. Dab Retin-A Micro on your forehead, chin and both cheeks, then spread it over your face. Smooth into your skin until all the acne medicine is invisible. When applying Retin-A Micro, be sure to avoid the corners of your mouth and eyes. Every morning, right after you wash your face, apply a sunscreen or non-comedogenic (won’t clog pores) moisturizer with sunscreen. This is an important step in your therapy, as Retin-A Micro can make your skin more susceptible to the sun.

Q:	Is it true you should not go out in the sun at all if you’re using Retin-A Micro?
A:	No, if you’re using Retin-A Micro acne medicine you do not have to avoid the sun completely. Follow basic sun-protection guidelines, spend as little time in the sun as possible and talk to your dermatologist about your summer skin care regimen.

Q:	What happens to my skin during treatment with Retin-A Micro?
A:	During the first few weeks of therapy, Retin-A Micro pushes the dead cells and plugs that cause acne to the skin’s surface. During weeks three through six, blackheads are being dislodged and shed from the skin. It may look like your acne has worsened, but it’s a sure sign that Retin-A Micro is working. So don’t abandon your acne medicine therapy at the first sign of improvement. If you do, the acne will come back. After six weeks, you should notice steady improvement in your skin condition. Retin-A Micro can successfully control your acne and help prevent new blemishes from forming.

Q:	Are there any precautions I should follow?
A:	If you are using Retin-A Micro, avoid other acne medicines or skin products that may dry or irritate. Unprotected exposure to sunlight and sunlamps should be minimized. People with sunburn should not use Retin-A Micro until fully recovered. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, think you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or are breast-feeding. If you become pregnant while using Retin-A Micro, tell your doctor right away.

Q:	What if I apply too much Retin-A Micro?
A:	Using too much may cause irritation. Be sure to use the dosage prescribed by your doctor. Results will not be faster or better if you over apply the acne medicine.

Q:	What happens if someone swallows Retin-A?
A:	Oral ingestion of large amounts of this acne medicine may lead to the same side effects as those associated with taking too much Vitamin A. If the Retin-A is accidentally swallowed, see a doctor immediately.

Q:	Can I use an over-the-counter acne medicine that contains benzoyl peroxide at the same time I’m using Retin-A Micro?
A:	Not a good idea. Tretinoin and benzoyl peroxide neutralize each other when used at the same time. Talk to your doctor before using any medications together.

Q:	How do I store Retin-A Micro?
A:	Retin-A Micro should be stored at room temperature.

Q:	If I need a good acne medicine but don’t have a prescription for Retin-A Micro, how can I get one?
A:	You can either see your doctor or dermatologist, or you can request a free online medical consultation at eDrugstore.md. Simply visit the Retin-A Micro product page, click the order link and follow the instructions.

Renova FAQs: Anti Aging Skin Care Products For Today

admin — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 11:51:00 +0000

Retin-A Micro® FAQs: Acne Medicine With a Difference

Q:	How does Renova work?
A:	Researchers believe that tretinoin, the active ingredient in Renova, works to reduce certain clinical signs of aging such as fine lines and wrinkles.

Q:	What causes facial wrinkles, brown spots, and rough facial skin?
A:	While most people blame aging, it’s actually chronic sun exposure that does most of the damage. The sun is believed to be responsible for 85 percent of the signs of aging skin.

Q:	Is Renova a wrinkle cream? Will it prevent new wrinkles from forming?
A:	Renova treats but does not prevent wrinkles, brown spots, or surface roughness.

Q:	Does Renova stop or reverse the aging process?
A:	While some people might call Renova an "anti aging" skin care product, no product can truly stop the signs of aging. But Renova is proven to reduce certain clinical signs of sun damage and the natural aging process. It cannot repair sun-damaged skin.

Q:	When will I begin to see results from using Renova?
A:	You may begin to notice your skin becoming smoother and softer within the first month or two. Within two to three months, you may notice a reduction in fine facial wrinkles. Additional benefits should be visible within five to six months of therapy. Continued use of the product after that can help maintain the improvements.

Q:	What are the differences between Renova 0.02% Cream and Renova 0.05% Cream?
A:	Both skin care products contain the active ingredient tretinoin but concentration levels and base formulations are different. Renova 0.02% contains tretinoin at a 0.02% concentration in a light, water-based cream. Renova 0.05% contains tretinoin at a concentration of 0.05% in a rich, oil-based cream. Renova 0.02% Cream, approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in August 2000, is proven to reduce fine facial wrinkles. Renova 0.05% Cream, approved in December 1995 by the FDA, is proven to reduce fine facial wrinkles, as well as fade brown spots and smooth surface roughness.

Q:	I’m not happy with my current anti aging skin care regimen. How do I get Renova?
A:	Renova is available by prescription only. You can ask your doctor or dermatologist. Or you can request a free medical consultation online when you order Renova from eDrugstore.md .

Q:	How is Renova applied?
A:	The doctor will tell you how and when to apply Renova. Generally, Renova should be used at night so it can remain on the skin.

Q:	When using Renova, do I have to avoid exposing my face to sunlight?
	As with any other anti aging skin care therapy containing tretinoin, you should limit exposure to the sun and always use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher. Patients who are currently taking drugs known to be photosensitizers should not use Renova because of the possibility of increased susceptibility to the sun. Also, patients with a sunburnt face should not use Renova.

Q:	How long can a person use Renova as an anti wrinkle cream?
A:	Renova 0.05% Cream has been proven effective in clinical trials lasting 11 months, while Renova 0.02% Cream has been proven effective in clinical trials lasting 12 months. Your doctor can answer this question best.

Q:	What happens to the skin when you stop using Renova?
A:	Continued use of Renova helps maintain the results. When patients stop using it, most lose the beneficial effects. Your doctor will determine the right length of therapy for you.

Q:	Can Renova be used on skin other than facial skin?
A:	It is only indicated for use on the face.

Q:	Are there other products to avoid when using Renova?
A:	Patients using Renova should discuss the use of other wrinkle creams or skin products with their doctor. The following products should be used with caution: other topical medications; medicated or abrasive facial soaps; drying cosmetics; skin care products with high concentrations of alcohol; astringents, spices or lime ingredients/scents; and products that may irritate the skin such as permanent waves, hair dye, and hair removal treatments like waxing and depilatories.

Q:	Can I wear cosmetics while being treated with Renova?
A:	Yes but not at the same time. All makeup should be removed and the face thoroughly cleaned before Renova is applied.

Q:	What are the side effects of Renova?
A:	You may experience some redness, itching or flaking, which is quite common at the start of treatment. In some patients, irritation may be more severe. When using Renova, as with any other anti aging skin care product, you should limit exposure to the sun and always use a sunscreen.

Q:	Can a woman use Renova if she is pregnant? Is there a link between Renova and birth defects?
A:	Current labeling for Renova says it should not be used by pregnant women, or women attempting to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while using Renova, you should tell your doctor immediately.

Q:	Can Renova be used by nursing mothers?
A:	It is not known whether the drug in Renova is excreted in human milk. Because many drugs are excreted in breast milk, caution should be exercised and a doctor consulted.

Q:	Are there any other patients who should not use Renova?
A:	Renova should not be used by people with a history of reactions to any of its ingredients and should be discontinued if hypersensitivity is noted. Renova should not be used by people taking drugs known to be photosensitizers, or by pregnant women or women at high risk of pregnancy.

Q:	How is Renova different from RETIN-A® (tretinoin) and RETIN-A® MICRO® (tretinoin gel)?
A:	Renova contains the same active ingredient as RETIN-A and RETIN-A MICRO. Tretinoin is a Vitamin A derivative like the one naturally found in your body and in yellow and orange vegetables. But RETIN-A and RETIN-A MICRO are acne treatments while Renova was developed specifically to treat fine lines and fine wrinkles.

Q:	Are RETIN-A, RETIN-A MICRO, and Renova sold by the same company?
A:	Yes, Ortho Dermatological markets all three products in the United States .

Q:	How do the results of Renova compare with those of AHAs (alpha hydroxy acids)?
A:	There are no controlled clinical trials comparing Renova and AHAs. Renova is the only prescription wrinkle cream approved by the FDA to reduce wrinkles and fine lines, such as crow’s-feet, when used as part of a total skin care and sun protection regimen.

Q:	What is the difference between Renova and retinol?
A:	Both retinol and the active ingredient of Renova, tretinoin, are Vitamin A derivatives. However, retinol is considered a cosmetic ingredient and not a prescription drug.

Q:	If I want anti aging skin care that’s more effective than an over-the-counter skin care product but don’t have a prescription for Renova, what should I do?
A:	You can either see your doctor or dermatologist for a prescription, or you can request a free online medical consultation at eDrugstore.md. Simply select the skin care product you want to order and follow the instructions. Our secure system will walk you through it and one of our own qualified, US-based physicians will review your information.