Comparative study between topical clindamycin solution (1%) versus combination of clindamycin (1%)/adapalene (0.1%) gel in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris

Background and objective: Acne vulgaris is a common skin disorder. Combination therapy with topical retinoid and antibiotic is recognized as an effective treatment of acne vulgaris. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy and tolerability of topical clindamycin solution as a monotherapy with the combination gel of clindamycin/adapalene for the treatment of mild to moderate acne of the face. Methods: This comparative therapeutic trial was conducted at the out patient department of Dermatology and Venereology at Rizgari Teaching Hospital in Erbil City from November 2008. Hundred patients with mild to moderate acne of the face were enrolled in the study and were divided in to two groups; group I (n=50); apply clindamycin phosphate solution 1%, and group II (n=50); apply a combination gel of clindamycin1% /adapalene 0.1%; once daily at night for 12 weeks. Results: Of 100 patients, 89 patients completed their treatment as per protocol, 45 patients in group I, and 44 patients in group II. At the end of the 12 weeks; the mean percent reductions of noninflammatory, inflammatory, and total lesion count were greater in group II than in group I. A significantly greater reduction of total (P = 0.008), and noninflammatory lesions (P = 0.002) were seen in group II than in group I. Both treatments were well tolerated, and few side effects were reported. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the combination of topical clindamycin and adapalene is more effective than clindamycin solution alone, and provides faster benefit in treatment of mild to moderate acne.