Randomized Controlled Trial of Weekly Oral Isotretinoin vs. Oral Tetracyclines for the Treatment of Moderate Acne Vulgaris
Medical University of South Carolina
Summary
In the effort to find better treatments for Moderate Acne, which often relies on long-term antibiotic use, researchers are exploring alternative options. While Isotretinoin, a Vitamin A derivative, is highly effective for severe acne, its side effects limit its use for milder cases. A recent study from our institution investigated a new approach: weekly Isotretinoin dosing. The results were promising, with acne improvement and no major side effects. This suggests that weekly Isotretinoin could be a successful alternative for moderate acne in both males and females. To validate these findings, investigators propose a randomized controlled trial comparing weekly Isotretinoin to daily Doxycycline over four months. This study could confirm the safety and effectiveness of weekly Isotretinoin, as well as shed light on patient satisfaction, and long-term results compared to standard antibiotics. This research may offer a breakthrough in treating moderate acne while addressing concerns about antibiotic overuse.
Description
In current practice, treatment options for Moderate Acne Vulgaris remain limited. The mainstay of treatment remains long courses of oral antibiotics, mainly Tetracyclines. With the growing discussion of antibiotic stewardship, alternate and more effective therapies need to be explored. The efficacy of Isotretinoin, a Vitamin A derivative, for the treatment of Acne, has been well-established, but its use is often limited to treatment of severe Acne due to its possible side effects and standard lab monitoring. Several studies have explored low-dose Isotretinoin for Mild-to- Moderate Acne with pr…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 12+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- Yes
Inclusion Criteria: \- Male and Female patients, 12 years and older with a diagnosis of Moderate Acne Vulgaris Exclusion Criteria: * Patients who are at baseline on long-term Tetracycline antibiotics, long-term Trimethoprim-Sulfamethoxazole, or on Spironolactone for any reason * Patients who have taken Isotretinoin in the past 6 months * Patients with hypersensitivity to Isotretinoin or to any of its components * Females who are pregnant, likely to become pregnant, or will be breast-feeding during the study period * Patients with a history of major depression, mania, or psychosis with an ac…
Interventions
- DrugIsotretinoin
This arm aims to study the effectiveness, side effects and patient satisfaction of taking isotretinoin on a weekly basis as opposed to current standard daily dosing.
- DrugTetracycline
This arm aims to serve as the comparison group. Tetracycline antibiotics are the current standard of care for the treatment of moderate acne.
Location
- Medical University of South CarolinaCharleston, South Carolina