Clinical Research Directory

Randomized, Triple-Blind, Vehicle-Controlled Trial of Topical Dapsone Gel 7.5% in Patients With Acne Vulgaris

The goal of this randomized, triple-blind, vehicle-controlled clinical trial is to evaluate whether topical 7.5% dapsone gel is effective for treating mild-to-moderate acne vulgaris in adults. The main questions are: * Does dapsone gel improve global acne severity compared with a matched vehicle gel? * Does dapsone gel improve comedonal and papulopustular acne severity? * Does dapsone gel reduce erythema and melanin indices measured with a Mexameter, and sebum index measured with a Sebumeter? * Does treatment with dapsone gel improve patients' acne-related quality of life? Researchers compared once-daily dapsone gel with a matched vehicle gel without the active ingredient. Participants: * Applied either dapsone gel or vehicle gel once daily for 8 weeks * Attended clinic visits at baseline, week 4, week 8, and week 12 * Had acne severity assessed using the Global Acne Grading System and Plewig and Kligman comedonal and papulopustular stages * Had erythema and melanin measured with a Mexameter, and sebum measured with a Sebumeter at predefined facial sites * Completed an acne quality-of-life questionnaire at baseline and week 8 * Had standardized photographs taken at each visit Treatment was continued for 8 weeks, followed by a 4-week treatment-free follow-up through week 12.

Clinical Trial to Compare Oral Isotretinoin to Standard of Care in Moderate Acne Skin of Color Patients

In Dermatology, assessment of people of color remains underrepresented in RCTs (\<10%) and guidelines. Acne affects around 9% of the population worldwide and negatively affects quality of life and self-esteem with anxiety, suicidal ideation and physical scarring. Main lesions associate comedons, inflammatory papules and pustules which grading of severity allows decision-making, e.g., topicals in mild acne and isotretinoin in severe acne. In darker skin type patients, i.e., Fitzpatrick phototypes IV-VI, acne-related pigmentation (ARP) occurs in 65% of cases which reflects either per- or post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Whatever is the mechanism, ARP (number, size, importance of dyschromia) impacts the quality of life in such patients. In moderate acne, treatment is based on oral antibiotics for 3 months, i.e., doxycycline or lymecycline, with topical treatment like tretinoin targeting comedons (and potentially ARP). However, oral antibiotics first-line were developed in white skin patients only and never showed its efficacy in ARP. Moreover, doxycycline could be associated with new-onset hyperpigmentation in acne patients. Isotretinoin -acting on the sebaceous gland and therefore the most effective drug in acne- is only prescribed after failure of antibiotics according to the guidelines.The main objective: To assess the superiority at M6 of a treatment of moderate facial acne in skin of color patients with oral isotretinoin in first line compared to the current standard of care on the severity of ARP.Multicenter randomized controlled trial - open study. The number of subjects required for the trial = 420

Vitamin D Supplementation in Acne

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare in acne vulgaris patients. The main question it aims to answer is: • To assess the therapeutic benefit of vitamin D supplement in acne vulgaris treatment, following a 2-month treatment regimen that includes vitamin D supplementation compared to conventional (systemic azithromycin and topical retinoid) treatment alone. Participants will receive vitamin D supplements in addition to capsule Azithromycin and topical retinoid. Researchers will compare groups to determine efficacy of Vitamin D supplements in the treatment of Acne vulgaris.

Weekly Isotretinoin vs Tetracycline for Moderate Acne

In the effort to find better treatments for Moderate Acne, which often relies on long-term antibiotic use, researchers are exploring alternative options. While Isotretinoin, a Vitamin A derivative, is highly effective for severe acne, its side effects limit its use for milder cases. A recent study from our institution investigated a new approach: weekly Isotretinoin dosing. The results were promising, with acne improvement and no major side effects. This suggests that weekly Isotretinoin could be a successful alternative for moderate acne in both males and females. To validate these findings, investigators propose a randomized controlled trial comparing weekly Isotretinoin to daily Doxycycline over four months. This study could confirm the safety and effectiveness of weekly Isotretinoin, as well as shed light on patient satisfaction, and long-term results compared to standard antibiotics. This research may offer a breakthrough in treating moderate acne while addressing concerns about antibiotic overuse.

Clascoterone for Steroid-related Acne Vulgaris in Transgender Male Patients Receiving Masculinizing Hormone Therapy

Mechanism-based acne treatment for transgender patients receiving testosterone currently does not exist and is an unmet medical need. This study explores clascoterone to treat testosterone induced acne. Many treatments we use to treat acne in females cannot be used in transgender males because they interfere with hormone therapy. Androgens have been associated with the development of acne vulgaris. Recently, a topical androgen receptor inhibitor cream (clascoterone) has been FDA-approved for the treatment of acne. However, clinical trials of clascoterone have excluded participants on exogenous hormones. Clascoterone has been hypothesized to be effective in the treatment of acne in transgender male participants on masculinizing hormone therapy, but it has never been studied or reported in the literature.

Investigating the Efficacy of Oral Probiotics Versus Placebo in Pakistani Patients With Moderate Acne on Acne Lesion Count and Systemic Inflammation

This randomized controlled trial evaluates the efficacy of oral probiotics compared to placebo in Pakistani patients with moderate Acne Vulgaris. Acne is a multifactorial inflammatory disorder influenced by microbial colonization, seborrhea, and immune dysregulation. Rising antibiotic resistance necessitates alternative therapeutic approaches. Emerging evidence highlights the gut-skin axis, suggesting probiotics may reduce systemic inflammation and acne severity. A total of 64 patients will be randomized into probiotic and placebo groups and treated for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is reduction in total acne lesion count, while the secondary outcome is change in serum Interleukin-6 levels. Clinical assessment includes lesion counts, GAGS scoring, and standardized photography. IL-6 levels will be measured using ELISA at baseline and study completion. Data will be analyzed using SPSS with appropriate statistical tests, considering p ≤ 0.05 as significant. This study aims to provide evidence for probiotics as a safe, effective, and antibiotic-sparing option in acne management, particularly in South Asian populations.

Efficacy of 0.5% Topical Timolol Eye Drops in the Treatment of Post-Inflammatory Erythema Following Acne Vulgaris

Post-inflammatory erythema (PIE) is a common sequela of acne vulgaris, characterized by persistent erythematous macules resulting from superficial vascular dilation. Current treatment options include energy-based devices such as intense pulsed light (IPL); however, these modalities may be costly and require specialized equipment. Timolol, a non-selective beta-adrenergic receptor blocker, has demonstrated vasoconstrictive properties and has been used off-label in dermatology for vascular-related conditions. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of topical 0.5% timolol ophthalmic solution in improving post-inflammatory erythema secondary to acne vulgaris and to compare its clinical outcomes with those achieved by intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. This prospective comparative study will assess changes in erythema severity using standardized clinical evaluation and objective measurement tools over a defined treatment period. The findings may provide evidence for a cost-effective and accessible therapeutic alternative for managing post-acne erythema.

Clindamycin Phosphate, Adapalene, and Benzoyl Peroxide Triple Combination Gel in Canadian Patients With Acne Vulgaris

The goal of this observational study is to learn about the effects of a treatment that contains clindamycin phosphate, adapalene, and benzoyl peroxide in people with acne. The main questions the study aims to answer are: * How satisfied are people with this treatment? * How well do people follow the treatment plan? * How effective and safe is the treatment? * How does the treatment affect quality of life? * How do people use other skin care products, such as cleansers, moisturizers, and sunscreen, while using this treatment? About 200 people aged 12 and older with acne across Canada will use the treatment as part of their regular care and answer questions about their experience over 20 weeks.

Comparative Effectiveness of Clindamycin-Retinoid, Clindamycin-Retinoid-Dexamethasone, and 10% SM-hUCMSC Secretome Gel in the Improvement of Mild-to-Moderate Acne Vulgaris

The goal of this clinical trial is to etermine and compare the effectiveness of three therapeutic regimens for mild to moderate acne vulgaris, such as, clindamycin-retinoid combination, clindamycin-retinoid-dexamethasone combination, and sekretome SM-hUCMSC 10% gel. The main questions it aims to answer are : * Is there a change in the number of inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules, nodules) and non-inflammatory lesions (open and closed comedones) before and after treatment in each treatment group? * Is there a difference in the reduction of acne vulgaris severity scores among the three treatment groups? * Are there differences in the rate of clinical improvement (time required to achieve a certain reduction in lesion count or severity score) among the treatment groups? * What are the incidence and characteristics of local adverse effects (erythema, burning sensation, skin dryness, irritation, hypo-/hyperpigmentation, and others) in each treatment group? * Are there differences in the impact of each therapeutic regimen on the risk of acne scar formation and improvement in skin quality (texture, elasticity, and color homogeneity)? * Does secretome gel demonstrate sufficient clinical potential and urgency as a safer and more prospective topical therapeutic alternative for acne vulgaris compared with retinol-clindamycin and retinol-clindamycin-dexamethasone 0.1% combinations? Participants will be allocated into three groups using simple block randomization. * Group A will receive a combination of clindamycin and a retinoid, applied thinly to the entire facial area once daily at night. * Group B will receive a combination of clindamycin, a retinoid, and dexamethasone, with the same method of application as Group A. * Group C will receive 10% SM-hUCMSC secretome gel, applied thinly to acne-affected areas twice daily (morning and night).

Topical 5% Spironolactone Gel Versus 0.1% Adapalene Gel for Acne Vulgaris: A Randomized Split-Face Study

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.

A Long-term Safety and Efficacy Study of N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO Gel 5%, in Subjects With Acne Vulgaris (GEDACNE-LT)

The clinical trial aims to test the long term safety of a new drug for acne vulgaris. The trial is performed to answer this question "Is it safe to apply the IMP daily for up to 52 weeks?". The trial aims to accurately measure the safety and the effects of the new treatment (N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO gel 5%) and to achieve this, patients will be review the drug containing the active ingredient. Participants will: * Take drug every day for up to 52 weeks * Visit the site once every 4 weeks for checkups and tests (where applicable) for the first 3 months of treatment, then visit the site every 13 weeks approximately for checkups and tests (where applicable). * Record on a diary the daily/weekly applications of the study drug at home, and record any adverse events

A Study to Assess Efficacy and Safety of N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO Gel 5%, in Patients With Acne Vulgaris (GEDACNE-1)

The clinical trial aims to test a new drug for acne vulgaris. The trial is performed to answer this question "Is it possible to reduce the number of skin lesions on your face/trunk, after daily applications for 12 consecutive weeks of a new drug?". The trial aims to accurately measure the effects of the new treatment (N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO gel 5%) and to achieve this, patients will be randomly assigned to one of the following treatments: * Study drug 1: test item, containing active ingredient * Study drug 2: a preparation not containing any active ingredient (vehicle). Researchers will compare active to vehicle to see if there are differences in the efficacy. Participants will: * Apply drug or a placebo every day for 12 weeks * Visit the site once every 4 weeks for checkups and tests (where applicable) * Record on a diary the daily applications of the study drug at home, and record any adverse events

A Study to Assess Efficacy and Safety of N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO Gel 5% in Patients With Acne Vulgaris (GEDACNE 2)

The clinical trial aims to test a new drug for acne vulgaris. The trial is performed to answer this question "Is it possible to reduce the number of skin lesions on your face/trunk, after daily applications for 12 consecutive weeks of a new drug?". The trial aims to accurately measure the effects of the new treatment (N-Acetyl-GED-0507-34-LEVO gel 5%) and to achieve this, patients will be randomly assigned to one of the following treatments: * Study drug 1: test item, containing active ingredient * Study drug 2: a preparation not containing any active ingredient (vehicle). Researchers will compare active to vehicle to see if there are differences in the efficacy. Participants will: * Apply drug or a placebo every day for 12 weeks * Visit the site once every 4 weeks for checkups and tests (where applicable) * Record on a diary the daily applications of the study drug at home, and record any adverse events

1% Clascoterone Cream for the Treatment Acne Vulgaris

This is a multicenter, randomized, double-blind, parallel, placebo-controlled Phase III clinical study to evaluate the efficacy and safety of 1% Clascoterone Cream in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Target population: Participants aged ≥12 years with moderate to severe acne vulgaris who meet the inclusion criteria and none of the exclusion criteria. Treatment: The investigational group will receive 1% Clascoterone Cream, and the control group will receive placebo. Approximately 1 g of the cream will be applied evenly to the entire face twice daily (morning and evening) for 12 weeks.

A Study to Evaluate Efficacy and Safety of HB0043 in Aadult Patients With Moderate to Severe Acne Vulgaris.

The purpose of this study is to assess efficacy safety and tolerability of HB0043 in adult patients with moderate to severe AV.

Evaluation of Topical Dutasteride as a Potential New Therapy for Facial Acne Vulgaris Versus the Triple Combination Therapy (Clindamycin Phosphate 1.2%, Benzoyl Peroxide 3.1%, and Adapalene 0.15% Gel)

Acne vulgaris (AV) is one of the most prevalent dermatological conditions worldwide, affecting approximately 85% of adolescents and young adults between the ages of 12 and 24 years .While acne is often self-limiting, it can have profound psychosocial implications as individuals with acne are more likely to experience emotional distress, lower self-esteem and anxiety disorders . Acne Vulgaris is a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the pilosebaceous units that leads to the development of different skin lesions such as comedones, papules, pustules, nodules and cystic lesions .

Lipidome and Microbiome Profile of Acne

Lipidome and microbiome analysis in subjects with acne on doxycycline. Investigators will look at the skin lipidome, blood lipidome, gut micro biome and skin micro biome. Investigators will look at the changes between acne subjects and control participants, but also the changes that occur after the use of antibiotics and how this is altered.

Metronidazole 2% Gel Versus Clindamycin 1% Gel for Moderate Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common inflammatory skin disorder. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) will compare the efficacy and safety of 2% metronidazole gel versus 1% clindamycin gel in adults with moderate acne vulgaris at Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi. Sixty eligible participants (18-35 years) will be enrolled using consecutive sampling and randomized in a 1:1 ratio using blocked randomization. Participants will apply the assigned gel as a thin layer twice daily for 12 weeks. Acne severity will be assessed using the Modified Global Acne Grading System (mGAGS) at baseline and at weeks 4, 8, and 12. The primary outcome is the proportion of participants achieving at least a 50% reduction from baseline in total mGAGS score at week 12. Local adverse effects (e.g., erythema, itching, irritation) will be recorded at each follow-up visit.

A Study to Assess Sebaceous Gland Changes and Constituents of Sebum (Skin Oil) Induced by Clascoterone 1% Cream in Acne Patients

to compare facial sebaceous gland morphology after 3 months of clascoterone cream 1% treatment and to compare facial sebum constituents at baseline to facial sebum constituents after 3 months of clascoterone cream 1% treatment

Safety, Efficacy and Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of KR230109 Cream in Facial Acne Vulgaris

This study will evaluate the safety, efficacy and pharmacokinetics of KR230109 cream compared with placebo in Patients (18-40 Years) with Acne vulgaris

Cold Atmospheric Plasma for Moderate-to-severe Acne Vulgaris Study

Acne vulgaris is a common, chronic inflammatory skin disease with complex pathogenesis and limited therapeutic options, especially for moderate-to-severe cases. Standard treatments-including topical and oral agents-are often constrained by side effects, antimicrobial resistance, and treatment resistance. Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP), a novel technology that generates reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, has demonstrated antimicrobial and tissue-regenerative properties in dermatology, but robust clinical evidence in acne management remains scarce. Existing data suggest promising efficacy and safety, yet its use in moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris has not been adequately investigated. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of two self-developed CAP devices as a potential innovative therapy for moderate-to-severe acne vulgaris.

Study to Evaluate the Safety and Efficacy of BF-200 ALA (Ameluz®) and BF-RhodoLED® in the Treatment of Moderate to Severe Acne Vulgaris With Photodynamic Therapy in Adults

The aim of this study is to test the safety and efficacy of photodynamic therapy (PDT) for the medication Ameluz® performed with the PDT-lamp BF-RhodoLED® in comparison to the respective placebo treatment for moderate to severe Acne vulgaris.

Evaluation of Serum Ceramides C16, C24, and Sphingosine-1-Phosphate (S1P) in Patients With Acne Vulgaris

Acne vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disorder that affects adolescents and young adults. Recent research has shown that lipid mediators, including ceramides and sphingolipids, play an important role in maintaining skin barrier function and inflammation. This study aims to evaluate the serum levels of ceramide C16, ceramide C24, and sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) in patients with acne vulgaris and compare them to healthy controls. The goal is to explore their possible role in the pathogenesis and severity of acne. Blood samples will be collected from participants, and quantitative analysis will be performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

A Study to Compare the Efficacy, Safety and Pharmacokinetics of Trifarotene 50 mcg/g Cream in Chinese Subjects With Acne Vulgaris

The primary objective is to assess the efficacy of trifarotene 50 microgram per gram (mcg/g) cream versus vehicle cream when applied once daily (QD) for 12 weeks in Chinese participants with moderate facial and truncal acne vulgaris.