Choice of Vehicle in Rosacea Treatment

[Guide]

A report indicates the following about the 'choice of vehicle' in treating rosacea: 

"The choice of vehicle is an important consideration in the treatment of acne and rosacea." [1] For example, some report irritation using the Cetaphil 'Basis for Vehicle' using Soolantra. [2] Some treatment vehicles cause not only irritability but also dryness or other issues that are termed 'adverse events' (AEs). This same report puts it succinctly: 

"Although topical therapy should avoid AEs associated with systemic medication administration, the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of topical therapy is influenced by percutaneous penetration, retention at the target for a sufficient time to obtain the desired therapeutic effect, and avoidance of adverse local reactions that may affect adherence. It has been noted that the drug product is only one of multiple components that determine the efficacy and tolerability of topically applied therapies such that the performance of a topical medication is also influenced by characteristics of the vehicle formulation that may influence penetration, permeation, irritancy, and patient preference." [1]

The report "summarizes drug delivery systems that have been developed with the aim of improving outcomes for patients being treated for either acne or rosacea." [1]

"In liquid and gel formulations, the bulk excipient that serves as a medium for conveying the active ingredient is usually called the vehicle. Petrolatum, dimethyl sulfoxide and mineral oil are common vehicles." [3]

End Notes 

[1] J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2022 May; 15(5): 36–40.
Enhancing Topical Pharmacotherapy for Acne and Rosacea: Vehicle Choices and Outcomes
Lawrence J. Green, MD and Edward Lain, MD

[2] Soolantra Mechanism of Action & Basis for the Vehicle (requires subscription)

[3] Excipient, Vehicles - Wikipedia