Efficacy of topically applied 17 alpha-propylmesterolone in acne patients.

A new substance--17 alpha-propylmesterolone--was tested in the treatment of acne. 8 male and 5 females patients applied a 3% alcoholic solution of the substance twice daily on the face for a mean period of 13 weeks. Besides clinical controls with acne grading also the determinations of the sebum excretion rate (SER) and separation of the lipid fractions was done before onset of treatment, after 14 days and then monthly. Concomitantly, the levels of several hormones (serum testosterone, prolactine, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone and estradiol) were determined. Clinical results were moderate to excellent in most of the patients. In two patients no therapy effects became apparent after 8 weeks. SER was decreased in all patients to values between 70 and 4% of pretreatment values. Sebaceous gland lipids and epidermal lipids were both inhibited effectively. Hormonal parameters showed no significant difference of pretreatment and posttreatment values. For the first time positive effects of a topical new antiandrogen--17 alpha-propylmesterolone--could be demonstrated. The interesting finding of decrease of dermal and epidermal lipids suggests that not only sebaceous glands but also overstimulated epidermal structures may be inhibited by this antiandrogen.