A scientific paper released in the Journal of Drug Design, Development and Therapy shows the effectiveness of Zolav®, a new antibiotic, in treating acne.

The work involved Australian company Boulos & Cooper Pharmaceuticals and consulting company AXD Pty Ltd. Chief Executive Officer of Boulos and Cooper Pharmaceuticals, Dr Ramiz Boulos said that “Zolav® has shown to have low toxicity to cells and antioxidant properties”.

The new antibiotic not only significantly reduces the acne infection, but also reduces redness at the same time. Dr Boulos said “these are promising results and provide persons affected by acne with a new treatment option that is low risk”.

Currently, the standard of care for the treatment of severe cases of acne is the use of isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative. Whilst effective, isotretinoin has a number of significant adverse side effects, of which its ability to lead to birth defects in pregnant women is the most serious.

The new treatment is only a few years from reaching the market.