COMPARISON OF EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF TOPICAL 0.1% ARISON

Introduction: Acne is a disease of the pilosebaceous unit with involving abnormalities in sebum production, microbial
flora changes, abnormal keratinization, and inflammation. Topical retinoids play a very important role in the treatment
of acne vulgaris. Adapalene a new third generation topical retinoid is a good choice for the treatment of acne
vulgaris with less side effects and high efficacy .
Objectives: To compare the efficacy and tolerability of topical Adapalene gel with Isotretinoin in treatment of mild to
moderate acne vulgaris.
Methods: The patients were divided into two groups. Group A was given topical Adapalene 0.1% and group B was
given topical Isotretinoin 0.05%. Patients were followed up at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks.
Results: Sixty six percent of patients in group B (Isotretinoin group) showed response versus 65.66% of patients in
group A (Adapalene group)(P>.001). Adapalene was, however, better tolerated with 12 of patients having side
effects as compared to 22 of patients in group B isotretinoin although statistically insignificant (p>0.005).
Conclusion It can be concluded from our study, that Isotretinoin (non-selective retinoid) and Adapalene both are
efficacious .Adapalene, has better tolerability profile than Isotretinoin..
Key words: Acne vulgaris, Isotretinoin, Adapalene, Retinoids.