Ortho Dermatologics launched Altreno (tretinoin) Lotion, 0.05% for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris in patients 9 years of age and older. Altreno Lotion is the first and only tretinoin available in a lotion for acne. Altreno Lotion has been shown to be effective and generally well-tolerated, and is provided in a formulation with known moisturizers hyaluronic acid, glycerin and collagen, according to the company.

“Many acne patients struggle using acne medications because they can cause irritation to the skin,” says Joshua Zeichner, MD, director, Cosmetic and Clinical Research in Dermatology, The Mount Sinai Hospital, New York City. “Altreno Lotion has demonstrated the efficacy of a tretinoin with a proven tolerability profile. Greater tolerability may help improve adherence to skin care regimens, which may ultimately lead to better patient outcomes.”

The FDA approved Altreno Lotion on Aug. 24, 2018, based on data from two identical multicenter, randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled Phase 3 studies that demonstrated Altreno Lotion resulted in statistically significant reductions in both inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions compared to vehicle. In the studies, Altreno Lotion was shown to have significantly greater efficacy compared to vehicle in achieving treatment success, which was defined as at least a two-grade improvement from baseline and clear to almost clear in acne severity by Evaluator Global Severity Score (EGSS). The most common adverse reactions, occurring in >1% of subjects and greater than vehicle, were dryness, pain, erythema, irritation and exfoliation.

“We are proud to make Altreno Lotion available as a new option for acne patients, providing the trusted efficacy of a tretinoin, but in a lotion formulation that is generally well-tolerated and helps hydrate and moisturize the skin,” says Bill Humphries, president, Ortho Dermatologics. “Millions of Americans are affected by acne, and the launch of Altreno Lotion underscores our commitment to expanding the treatment possibilities for this community.”