Low dose versus standard dose of Isotretinoin in acne vulgaris (1)
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Retrospective Cohort Study of standard dose versus low dose isotretinoin treatment for acne vulgaris
IRAS ID
161630
Contact name
Paul Yesudian
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Bangor University
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 7 months, 1 days
Research summary
Isotretinoin has been the most effective treatment for severe acne vulgaris since the 1980s. However, the ideal dosing regime is unclear. It is widely accepted that a cumulative dosage of 120mg/kg -150mg/kg is the standard treatment dosage, based on early studies preceding the release of isotretinoin. However, there are studies that recommended lower dose treatment because it is more cost effective and causes fewer side effects. On the other hand, some studies have shown a lower relapse rate with the higher treatment dose. This study will compare the standard dose against low dose isotretinoin treatment for acne treatment in Glan Clwyd Hospital from 2009 to 2013. Data will be collected retrospectively from patients' medical notes. Main outcomes measured will be the proportion of patients who experience a relapse within 1 years of isotretinoin treatment, and treatment related adverse effects between the two groups. 'Relapse’ for the purpose of this study is defined as recurring acne that required a prescription for a second course of isotretinoin. The study results will generate important information with respect to evaluating the ideal dosing regimen.
REC name
Wales REC 5
REC reference
15/WA/0011
Date of REC Opinion
16 Jan 2015
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion