Comparison of the efficacy of topical 0.05% Isotretinoin gel with 1% Clindamycin solution in the treatment of papulopustular acne vulgaris

Abstract

Background and Aim: Acne vulgaris is a common disorder of adolescence which may lead to many cosmetically and psychological problems so various topical and systemic therapeutic modalities have been used. This study was designed to compare efficacy of topical Isotretinoin gel with 1% Clindamycin solution in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Methods: In this randomized clinical trial, 60 patients with mild to moderate papulopustular acne vulgaris were selected and randomly allocated into two (30 patients in each group). One group was treated with 0.05% Isotretinoin gel every night. The other group was treated with 1% Clindamycin solution twice daily. Both groups were followed every month for 3months. Results: The difference between TLC mean after treatment was meaningful in comparison with its mean before the treatment (P<0.001). The variance analyze with multiple measurements showed significant difference in ASI after treatment in comparison with its number before treatment (P<0.001). But satisfaction of patients in Clindamycin group was higher (P<0.001). Conclusion: Decrease in TLC and ASI in both treatment groups had a significant difference but with considering the minimal complications and satisfaction of patients in Clindamycin group. We can recommend 1% solution of Clindamycin in papulopustuler lesions of acne vulgaris.