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Li Y, Zeng Y, Chen Z, Nie S, Wu Z. The efficiency and safety of low-dosage isotretinoin therapy for Chinese acne vulgaris patients. J Cosmet Dermatol 2024; 23:926-930. [PMID: 37934937 DOI: 10.1111/jocd.16073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2023] [Revised: 10/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acne vulgaris is one of the most common skin conditions in dermatology clinics. Accumulating evidence has implicated oral low-dosage isotretinoin was an effective treatment for acne with fewer side effects. Currently, the data on low-dosage isotretinoin use in Chinese is limited. AIMS To investigate the efficiency and safety of low-dosage isotretinoin therapy for Chinese acne patients. METHODS Three hundred and eighty-eight patients treated with low-dosage isotretinoin (0.2-0.4 mg/kg/d) and who completed the course (120 mg/kg) were enrolled. Medical information on the severity, duration, adverse effects, and outcome of acne was reviewed. RESULTS The majority (90.2%, n = 350) of patients achieved complete remission, and on average, patients received 13.5 months of treatment. The time between isotretinoin start and the clear date between the mild and moderate groups was not significantly different (74 ± 24 vs. 84 ± 24 days). However, it took longer to resolve for the severe acne group (112 ± 25 days). Follow-up 1 year after completion of the isotretinoin course, 37/350 (10.6%) patients relapsed, but there was no difference in the severity of acne. There were 133 (34.3%), 40 (10.3%), and 14 (2.6%) patients who developed hypercholesterolemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and high LDL, respectively. Thirty-two (8.2%) and 28 patients (7.2%) had elevated serum levels of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases. No values above grade 2 were detected. CONCLUSIONS This study reaffirms the efficacy and safety of low-dosage oral isotretinoin in Chinese patients with acne vulgaris. Lab investigation could be performed after 2 months of therapy in healthy patients with normal baseline liver function and lipid panel tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Li
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yibin Zeng
- Department of Dermatology, Minhang Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zile Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shu Nie
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhouwei Wu
- Department of Dermatology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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Villani A, Nastro F, Di Vico F, Fabbrocini G, Annunziata MC, Genco L. Oral isotretinoin for acne: a complete overview. Expert Opin Drug Saf 2022; 21:1027-1037. [DOI: 10.1080/14740338.2022.2102605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Villani
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Nastro
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Vico
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriella Fabbrocini
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Annunziata
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Lucia Genco
- Dermatology Unit, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
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3
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Lytvyn Y, McDonald K, Mufti A, Beecker J. Comparing the frequency of isotretinoin-induced hair loss at <0.5-mg/kg/d versus ≥0.5-mg/kg/d dosing in acne patients: A systematic review. JAAD Int 2022; 6:125-142. [PMID: 35199047 PMCID: PMC8841364 DOI: 10.1016/j.jdin.2022.01.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Over 1 million isotretinoin prescriptions are authorized in the United States per year. An insight into the frequency, dose dependency, timing, and reversibility of hair loss associated with isotretinoin treatment for acne vulgaris could help guide dosing regimens and patient counseling. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the frequency of hair loss in patients with acne vulgaris on <0.5 mg/kg/d daily doses of isotretinoin versus the frequency of hair loss in patients with acne vulgaris on ≥0.5 mg/kg/d daily doses of isotretinoin. An Embase and MEDLINE search was conducted on July 15, 2020, in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The review focused on acne vulgaris patients. The treatment of acne vulgaris is the most common use of isotretinoin, and the population is typically younger and with fewer comorbidities. Twenty-two studies reported hair loss with oral isotretinoin treatment. A frequency analysis suggested that patients with acne vulgaris on <0.5 mg/kg/d of isotretinoin experienced hair loss at a frequency of 3.2% (n = 18/565) compared with those on ≥0.5 mg/kg/d, who experienced hair loss at a frequency of 5.7% (n = 192/3375). Inferential statistics were not possible. Physicians should consider counseling patients about the risk of telogen effluvium prior to drug initiation, as is commonly done for other side effects. The potential trend of increased hair loss frequency at a higher daily dosing warrants further investigation using higher-quality research.
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Sadeghzadeh-Bazargan A, Ghassemi M, Goodarzi A, Roohaninasab M, Najar Nobari N, Behrangi E. Systematic review of low-dose isotretinoin for treatment of acne vulgaris: Focus on indication, dosage, regimen, efficacy, safety, satisfaction, and follow up, based on clinical studies. Dermatol Ther 2020; 34:e14438. [PMID: 33085149 DOI: 10.1111/dth.14438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2020] [Revised: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Oral isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for moderate to severe acne and its side effects are mostly dose-dependent. Low dose isotretinoin (0.5 mg/kg/day for 1 week every 4 weeks for 6-months) could be effective and even in its end result, comparable with high or optimal doses. In this systematic review, we aimed to sum up the results of clinical trials regarding indications, dosage, prescription protocol, effectiveness, side effects, patient satisfaction, recurrence rate, and follow-up period of low dose isotretinoin in treatment of acne. Cochrane, Google Scholar, Science Direct, PubMed, and Medline were searched. A total of 460 articles were searched electronically and 382 articles were excluded. About 4 were non-English and 2, before 1980. The full text of 72 articles was reviewed. Finally 15 documents met the inclusion criteria for entering this systematic review. The standard dose of isotretinoin is 0.5-1 mg/kg/day for 4 months with a total dose of 120-140 mg/kg/day. Daily doses between 0.1 and 0.3 mg/kg can be recommended for more than 6 months due to the occurrence of fewer side effects and more economical concerns. For greater effectiveness, it could be combined with other medications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammadreza Ghassemi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Azadeh Goodarzi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Masoumeh Roohaninasab
- Department of Dermatology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Niloufar Najar Nobari
- Department of Dermatology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
| | - Elham Behrangi
- Department of Dermatology, Rasoul Akram Hospital, Iran University of Medical Sciences (IUMS), Tehran, Iran
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5
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Fallah H, Rademaker M. Isotretinoin in the management of acne vulgaris: practical prescribing. Int J Dermatol 2020; 60:451-460. [PMID: 32860434 DOI: 10.1111/ijd.15089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 04/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Since it was first approved for use in 1982, isotretinoin has revolutionized the management of acne vulgaris. Despite almost four decades of widespread use, uncertainty still exists regarding the manner in which it is best prescribed. In this review, we provide an update on the pharmacokinetics, mechanism of action, contraindications, interactions, and appropriate dosing schedule of isotretinoin in the treatment of acne. We also discuss the safety of performing concurrent dermatological procedures in patients taking isotretinoin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haady Fallah
- Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia.,The Skin Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Marius Rademaker
- Waikato Clinical Campus, University of Auckland, Hamilton, New Zealand
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6
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Bagatin E, Costa CS. The use of isotretinoin for acne - an update on optimal dosing, surveillance, and adverse effects. Expert Rev Clin Pharmacol 2020; 13:885-897. [PMID: 32744074 DOI: 10.1080/17512433.2020.1796637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Acne is a chronic, inflammatory, and immune mediated disease of pilosebaceous unit, highly prevalent in adolescents. It involves face, trunk, and back; may leave scars and affect quality of life. Early, effective, and safe treatment is the key for disease resolution. Oral isotretinoin is the unique treatment for cure or prolonged remission for moderate and severe acne, preventing psychosocial impact and scars. It inhibits sebaceous glands activity and has anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory properties. AREAS COVERED We performed a comprehensive literature search on PubMed database, up to March 2020, regarding oral isotretinoin for acne treatment. We synthetized data about acne pathogenesis and mechanism of action, efficacy, and safety of isotretinoin. EXPERT OPINION This drug is effective, despite common, controllable, and reversible mucocutaneous side effects. Serious adverse events are rare and represent individual reactions. Teratogenicity is the most severe, requiring rigorous control. We believe that no other therapeutic option, even topicals combined to oral antibiotics accomplish same results. Recurrence after treatments other than isotretinoin is the rule, prolonging risk of scars, compromising skin appearance, and causing emotional distress in teenagers. If there is no absolute contraindication, isotretinoin should be the first line treatment for moderate to severe inflammatory acne.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edileia Bagatin
- Department of Dermatology, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de São Paulo, EPM/UNIFESP , Sao Paulo, SP, Brazil
| | - Caroline Sousa Costa
- Department of Specialized Medicine, Discipline of Dermatology, Universidade Federal do Piauí, UFPI , Teresina, PI, Brazil
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Kardeh S, Saki N, Jowkar F, Kardeh B, Moein SA, Khorraminejad-Shirazi MH. Efficacy of Azithromycin in Treatment of Acne Vulgaris: A Mini Review. World J Plast Surg 2019; 8:127-134. [PMID: 31309049 PMCID: PMC6620802 DOI: 10.29252/wjps.8.2.127] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotics are commonly used in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Considering the rise of antibiotic resistance, alternative medications may be used in the main anti-acne armamentarium. The aim of this study was to investigate the efficacy of oral azithromycin in the treatment of acne vulgaris. METHODS Database searches were performed in PubMed and Scopus using the keywords “azithromycin” and “acne”. RESULTS Azithromycin 500 mg once daily for 3 days per week or in cycles of 10 days for 12 weeks are the most commonly used regimens. CONCLUSION Available experimental data suggest that oral azithromycin is an effective and well-tolerated option for treatment of acne vulgaris.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sina Kardeh
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.,Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.,Burn and Wound Healing Research Center, Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Nasrin Saki
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Farideh Jowkar
- Molecular Dermatology Research Center, Department of Dermatology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Bahareh Kardeh
- Bone and Joint Diseases Research Center, Clinical Neurology Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Seyed Arman Moein
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Khorraminejad-Shirazi
- Cellular and Molecular Medicine Student Research Group, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Science, Shiraz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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8
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Kim JE, Park AY, Lee SY, Park YL, Whang KU, Kim HJ. Comparison of the Efficacy of Azithromycin Versus Doxycycline in Acne Vulgaris: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Ann Dermatol 2018; 30:417-426. [PMID: 30065581 PMCID: PMC6029975 DOI: 10.5021/ad.2018.30.4.417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Acne vulgaris is one of the most common disorders of the pilosebaceous unit. Although doxycycline is considered to be a first-line anti-acne antibiotic, various other antibiotics have been tried due to its adverse effects and contraindications. We performed a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the efficacy of oral azithromycin pulse therapy with that of oral daily doxycycline in the management of moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Methods Five scientific databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS, and Web of Science) were searched to identify relevant studies. A review of 1,341 publications produced six RCTs that met our predefined inclusion criteria. The clinical outcome measures were remaining acne lesion counts, patients' self-assessment of treatment, and the investigators' assessment of treatment after 12 weeks. Results We included six studies assessing 906 patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Meta-analyses of clinical outcome measures revealed no significant difference between the two groups regarding remaining acne lesion counts (p=0.27), patients' self-assessment of treatment (p=0.67), and the investigators' assessment of treatment (p=0.32). The incidence of severe adverse events leading to the discontinuation of therapy was higher in the doxycycline daily therapy group when compared with the azithromycin pulse therapy group. Conclusion This study indicates that azithromycin pulse therapy is equivalent to doxycycline at 12 weeks in the efficacy of the treatment for moderate to severe acne vulgaris Therefore, oral azithromycin pulse therapy may be a good alternative to doxycycline in the management of acne for those unable to tolerate doxycycline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung Eun Kim
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, Cheonan, Korea
| | - A Young Park
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Sung Yul Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Cheonan Hospital, Cheonan, Korea
| | - Young Lip Park
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon, Korea
| | - Kyu Uang Whang
- Department of Dermatology, Soonchunhyang University Seoul Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun-Jung Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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9
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Tan AU, Schlosser BJ, Paller AS. A review of diagnosis and treatment of acne in adult female patients. Int J Womens Dermatol 2017; 4:56-71. [PMID: 29872679 PMCID: PMC5986265 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijwd.2017.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
This review focuses on the treatment options for adult female patients with acne. Acne in adult female patients may start during adolescence and persist or have an onset in adulthood. Acne has various psychosocial effects that impact patients’ quality of life. Treatment of acne in adult women specifically has its challenges due to the considerations of patient preferences, pregnancy, and lactation. Treatments vary widely and treatment should be tailored specifically for each individual woman. We review conventional therapies with high levels of evidence, additional treatments with support from cohort studies and case reports, complementary and/or alternative therapies, and new agents under development for the treatment of patients with acne.
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Affiliation(s)
- A U Tan
- Northwestern University, Department of Dermatology, Chicago, IL
| | - B J Schlosser
- Northwestern University, Department of Dermatology, Chicago, IL
| | - A S Paller
- Northwestern University, Department of Dermatology, Chicago, IL
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10
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Zaenglein AL, Pathy AL, Schlosser BJ, Alikhan A, Baldwin HE, Berson DS, Bowe WP, Graber EM, Harper JC, Kang S, Keri JE, Leyden JJ, Reynolds RV, Silverberg NB, Stein Gold LF, Tollefson MM, Weiss JS, Dolan NC, Sagan AA, Stern M, Boyer KM, Bhushan R. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol 2016; 74:945-73.e33. [PMID: 26897386 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaad.2015.12.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 704] [Impact Index Per Article: 88.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2015] [Accepted: 12/15/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Acne is one of the most common disorders treated by dermatologists and other health care providers. While it most often affects adolescents, it is not uncommon in adults and can also be seen in children. This evidence-based guideline addresses important clinical questions that arise in its management. Issues from grading of acne to the topical and systemic management of the disease are reviewed. Suggestions on use are provided based on available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | - Diane S Berson
- Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York; New York Presbyterian Hospital, New York, New York
| | - Whitney P Bowe
- SUNY Down State Medical Center-Brooklyn, New York, New York
| | - Emmy M Graber
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts; Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Sewon Kang
- Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Jonette E Keri
- University of Miami Health System, Miami, Florida; Miami VA Hospital, Miami, Florida
| | | | - Rachel V Reynolds
- Harvard Medical Faculty Physicians, Boston, Massachusetts; Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nanette B Silverberg
- Mount Sinai Health System-Beth Israel, New York, New York; St. Lukes-Roosevelt, New York, New York
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Kevin M Boyer
- American Academy of Dermatology, Schaumburg, Illinois
| | - Reva Bhushan
- American Academy of Dermatology, Schaumburg, Illinois.
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Dhaked DR, Meena RS, Maheshwari A, Agarwal US, Purohit S. A randomized comparative trial of two low-dose oral isotretinoin regimens in moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Indian Dermatol Online J 2016; 7:378-385. [PMID: 27730033 PMCID: PMC5038098 DOI: 10.4103/2229-5178.190505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Oral isotretinoin is highly effective in all forms and grades of acne, even in lower dosages (<0.5 mg/kg/day). There is a paucity of comparative data on the various low-dose regimens of oral isotretinoin in the Indian literature. Objectives: To assess and compare the efficacy and tolerability of two low-dose oral isotretinoin treatment regimens (20 mg daily and 20 mg alternate days) in moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Materials and Methods: A total of 240 patients with moderate to severe acne vulgaris were selected and randomized into two groups and treated with a fixed dose of 20 mg of isotretinoin (Group A - daily and Group B - alternate days) for 24 weeks and followed up for 12 weeks post therapy. Results: A total of 234 patients completed the study. At the end of therapy, decrease in the total acne loads up to 98.99% (Group A) and 97.69% (Group B) was achieved from the baseline (P < 0.01), excellent response was observed in 98.3% (Group A) and 93.96% (Group B) patients (P = 0.166). In the severe acne, Group A performed significantly better than Group B until the end of 36 weeks. While in the moderate acne, significant difference in the response between both groups was observed only up to 12 weeks. No serious side effect was observed. Conclusion: Both isotretinoin regimens were well tolerated and found to be an effective treatment for moderate to severe acne vulgaris. However, in moderate acne 20 mg alternate day regimen may be preferred. A 20 mg daily regimen is a better choice for severe acne in terms of response. Limitation: Small sample size and short follow-up period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daulat Ram Dhaked
- Department of Skin, VD and Leprosy, Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Ram Singh Meena
- Department of Skin, VD and Leprosy, Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Anshul Maheshwari
- Department of Skin, VD and Leprosy, Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Uma Shankar Agarwal
- Department of Skin, VD and Leprosy, Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Saroj Purohit
- Department of Skin, VD and Leprosy, Sawai Man Singh (SMS) Medical College, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India
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12
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Rao PK, Bhat RM, Nandakishore B, Dandakeri S, Martis J, Kamath GH. Safety and efficacy of low-dose isotretinoin in the treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris. Indian J Dermatol 2014; 59:316. [PMID: 24891681 PMCID: PMC4037971 DOI: 10.4103/0019-5154.131455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Isotretinoin is indicated for moderate to severe cases of acne which are unresponsive to conventional therapy. The classical recommended dose is 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg/day. As the side effects are dose related, low-dose isotretinoin therapy for acne is an attractive option; however, but little data exists on the safety and efficacy of this strategy. Materials and Methods: In this prospective, non-comparative study, 50 participants, both male and female, having moderate to severe acne vulgaris were enrolled and treated with isotretinoin at a dose of 20 mg/day (approximately 0.3-0.4 mg/kg/day), for a period of 3 months. Participants were evaluated by means of clinical and laboratory investigations before starting isotretinoin. Investigations were repeated at the end of the first and third months following completion of treatment, and participants were followed up for 6 months to look for any relapse. Results: At the end of the treatment, very good results were observed in 90% of participants. Cheilitis was the most common among the side effects observed and was seen in 98% of the participants. One participant developed vitiligo as a side effect, which is a new finding, and has not reported in literature before. Elevated serum lipid levels were observed in 6% of the participants, and relapse occurred in 4% of the participants over a 6 month follow up period. Conclusion: Three months of treatment with low-dose isotretinoin (20 mg/day) was found to be effective in the treatment of moderate to severe acne vulgaris, with a low incidence of serious side effects. This dose also was more economical than the higher doses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parinitha K Rao
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Ramesh M Bhat
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - B Nandakishore
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Sukumar Dandakeri
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Jacintha Martis
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
| | - Ganesh H Kamath
- Department of Dermatology, Father Muller Medical College, Mangalore, Karnataka, India
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Sandoval LF, Hartel JK, Feldman SR. Current and future evidence-based acne treatment: a review. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2013; 15:173-92. [PMID: 24283604 DOI: 10.1517/14656566.2014.860965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Current acne treatment guidelines, as well as, treatment efficacy, safety, tolerability and patient preferences must all be considered in determining appropriate treatment regimes. Literature can assist physicians' evidence-based recommendations according to these factors. AREAS COVERED To determine the current and future direction of pharmacotherapy for treatment of acne, a PubMed search was conducted to identify all clinical trials involving the treatment of acne from 2009 to 2012. A total of 65 publications met inclusion criteria and were reviewed. Literature was heavily focused on the efficacy and tolerability of topical combination therapies and supported their use compared with monotherapy. A few studies on topical antiandrogens and antioxidants showed an alternative approach to targeting acne. Studies on oral monotherapy provided some evidence for the use of pulsed azithromycin for acne in adolescents. Literature also supports the use of low-dose isotretinoin for moderate acne, which was comparable in efficacy to high-dose regimes and better tolerated. EXPERT OPINION Combination acne therapy, whether it be combination topical therapy or combination oral and topical therapy, is well supported by recent studies. Given the multifactorial pathogenesis of acne and the hurdles of adherence to treatment, we anticipate greater development of and reliance on combination acne products in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura F Sandoval
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Center for Dermatology Research, Departments of Dermatology , Winston-Salem, North Carolina , USA +1 760 217 1457 ; +1 336 716 7732 ;
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