A placebo-controlled clinical trial to compare a gel containing a combination of isotretinoin (0.05%) and erythromycin (2%) with gels containing isotretinoin (0.05%) or erythromycin (2%) alone in the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.

PURPOSE: To compare the clinical benefit of isotretinoin (0.05%) and erythromycin (2%) gels alone and in combination (Isotrexintrade mark) in acne patients. PROCEDURE: The study was a randomised placebo-controlled trial in acne patients who should benefit from topical therapy.
RESULTS: All treatment groups except placebo produced a time-related reduction in lesion counts, with the combined therapy producing the largest mean decrease. Between-group comparisons showed several significant differences.
CONCLUSION: Isotrexin was significantly better than placebo at all time points for inflamed and total lesions, and was better than isotretinoin at week 4. Side-effects were minimal.

RCT Entities:   Population Interventions Outcomes