ABSTRACT
Objective To compare the efficacy of alternate day fixed low-dose regimen of isotretinoin [20mg] with daily low-dose regimen in mild to moderate acne vulgaris.
Methods Sixty patients of mild to moderate acne vulgaris were divided into two groups A and B, each having 30 patients. In group A patients, oral Isotretinoin 20mg/day was used. In group B patients, oral isotretinoin 20 mg on alternate days was given. Both regimens were continued for six months. The disease severity was assessed by Global Acne Grading System. Patients were followed up monthly and their GAGS scores were calculated at each visit. Percentage decrease in GAGS score at the end of six months was taken as efficacy.
Results The mean age of the patients was noted as 20.72 +/- 4.06 years. There were 4 [7%] male patients whereas 56 [93%] patients were females. The mean weight of the patients was noted as 57.88 +/- 7.36 kg. In daily dose group, the mean percentage decrease in GAGS was 73.95 +/- 14.04 whereas in alternate day group, the mean percentage decrease in GAGS was 66.57 +/- 14.97 [P>0.05]. In daily dose group, efficacy was achieved in 27 [90%] patients whereas in alternate dose group, efficacy recorded was in 26 [86.7%] patients [P>0.05].
Conclusion In the management of mild to moderate acne vulgaris, the alternate day low-dose isotretinoin has almost equal efficacy as compared to daily low-dose therapy.