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Topical 5% Spironolactone Gel Versus 0.1% Adapalene Gel for Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized Split-Face Study
Sponsor: Assiut University
Summary
Acne vulgaris is one of the most common dermatological conditions affecting adolescents and young adults. It results from multiple pathogenic factors, including increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by Cutibacterium acnes, and inflammation. Topical retinoids such as adapalene are widely used as first-line therapy; however, they may cause irritation and are not always effective in all patients. Recently, topical antiandrogen therapies such as spironolactone have gained attention because of their ability to reduce sebum production and improve acne lesions. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a topical 5% spironolactone gel nano-formulation compared with 0.1% adapalene gel in the treatment of acne vulgaris. A split-face study design will be used in which each participant will receive spironolactone gel on one side of the face and adapalene gel on the other side. This design allows each participant to serve as their own control and helps reduce variability in treatment response. Participants diagnosed with acne vulgaris will be enrolled and treated for a defined follow-up period. Clinical assessment will be performed at baseline and during scheduled follow-up visits to evaluate improvement in acne lesions and monitor possible adverse effects. The primary outcomes will include changes in acne lesion counts and clinical severity scores. Safety and tolerability of both treatments will also be assessed. The results of this study may provide evidence regarding the effectiveness of topical spironolactone nano-formulation as a potential alternative or adjunct therapy for acne vulgaris.
Official title: Efficacy and Safety of Topical 5% Spironolactone Gel Nano-Formulation Versus 0.1% Adapalene Gel in the Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Split-Face Study
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
18 Years - 45 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
40
Start Date
2026-04
Completion Date
2026-12
Last Updated
2026-03-17
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Spironolactone 5% Topical Gel
This is a drug-loaded nanospanlastics dispersion (using Span 60 and Tween 40) fabricated via the ethanol injection technique. It is applied twice daily to one half of the face for 8 weeks.
Adapalene 0.1% Topical Gel
A third-generation retinoid applied once daily at night to the opposite half of the face.
Locations (1)
Assiut University
Asyut, Egypt