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Updated: Jul 11, 2026

Implementation of In Vitro Drug Resistance Assays: Maximizing the Potential for Uncovering Clinically Relevant Resistance Mechanisms
Published on: December 9, 2015
The impact and importance of resistance
1Department of Dermatology, University of California, Davis, USA.
Abstract:
Bacterial resistance to antibiotics began to emerge soon after their introduction. Beginning in the 1970s, Propionibacterium acnes also began to show decreased sensitivity to the antibiotics typically used in acne management. Clinically, this trend has translated to decreased efficacy and even nonresponse to therapy. A variety of recommendations regarding optimum use of antibiotics in acne management have been developed to preserve the utility of these drugs. Most important is the use of combination therapy with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) to help minimize the development of resistance. Retinoids also are recommended in acne therapeutic regimens because these agents are active against most acne pathogenetic mechanisms, but they have no apparent activity preventing antibiotic resistance when used in combination with a topical antibiotic.
Insights
Antibiotic resistance in Propionibacterium acnes is a growing concern for acne treatment. Combination therapy with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is crucial for maintaining antibiotic effectiveness against acne.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Antibiotic resistance in bacteria emerged shortly after antibiotic introduction.
- Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) has shown decreased sensitivity to antibiotics since the 1970s, impacting acne treatment efficacy.
- This resistance leads to reduced treatment effectiveness and nonresponse in patients with acne.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recommendations for the optimal use of antibiotics in acne management.
- To emphasize strategies for preserving the utility of antibiotics against P. acnes.
- To evaluate the role of combination therapies in mitigating antibiotic resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and clinical recommendations on antibiotic use in acne.
- Analysis of the impact of combination therapy on P. acnes antibiotic resistance.
- Assessment of the role of benzoyl peroxide (BPO) and retinoids in managing antibiotic resistance.
Main Results:
- Combination therapy with benzoyl peroxide (BPO) is the most effective strategy to minimize antibiotic resistance development in P. acnes.
- Retinoids are effective against acne pathogenetic mechanisms but do not prevent antibiotic resistance when used with topical antibiotics.
- Clinical outcomes demonstrate decreased efficacy and nonresponse to antibiotic monotherapy due to resistance.
Conclusions:
- Judicious use of antibiotics is essential for managing acne and combating resistance.
- Combination therapy, particularly with benzoyl peroxide (BPO), is recommended to preserve antibiotic efficacy.
- Retinoids should be considered for their direct acne-fighting mechanisms, but not as a primary strategy for preventing antibiotic resistance.
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