Publication:

Randomized comparative study of combination of low dose oral isotretinoin with pulsed azithromycin and low dose oral isotretinoin alone in the management of moderate to severe acne

Background Oral isotretinoin and azithromycin are two important drugs used in management of acne. Their mode of action is different and thus theoretically the combination of these two should have a synergistic effect.

Methods In this randomized comparative trial 100 patients were randomized into two groups. One received oral isotretinoin (0.3 mg/kg/day) alone and the other group received pulsed azithromycin (500 mg/day for three days in a week for 8 weeks) in addition to oral isotretinoin. Improvement in acne was noted as percentage improvement in mean acne score.

Results No statistically significant difference was noted in the improvement in mean acne score of both the groups.

Conclusions Addition of pulsed azithromycin to low dose oral isotretinoin does not offer a better treatment outcome in patients of moderate to severe acne.