A randomized controlled trial of combination treatment with ketoconazole 2% cream and adapalene 0.1% gel in pityriasis versicolor.

BACKGROUND

Ketoconazole cream and adapalene gel are effective drugs against pityriasis versicolor. However, there are no reports on combination treatment with both compounds in pityriasis versicolor.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of combination therapy with adapalene 0.1% gel and ketoconazole 2% cream against pityriasis versicolor.

METHODS

Participants with pityriasis versicolor were randomly assigned to two groups: the combination group was treated with adapalene 0.1% gel and ketoconazole 2% cream once daily, and the monotherapy group received ketoconazole 2% cream twice daily. The treatment lasted 2 weeks in both groups. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 1, 2 and 4 weeks after the initiation of treatment.

RESULTS

We noted clinically significant differences in total improvement rates between groups Weeks 1 and 2. A statistically significant difference was obtained Week 4. The treatment was well tolerated by all participants.

CONCLUSIONS

The combination of adapalene 0.1% gel and ketoconazole 2% cream is effective and safe in the treatment of pityriasis versicolor. This therapeutic regimen was rapid, providing a valuable option for patients with pityriasis versicolor.