Efficacy of low-dose isotretinoin in acne vulgaris.

Low-dose isotretinoin (0.5 mg/kg/day) is a mode of therapy for mild to moderate grades of acne. We analyzed the various trials of this mode of therapy with or without combination with topical agents. We also statistically analyzed the results, efficacy and relapse rates of standard therapy in comparison with the low-dose therapy. Our analysis of the data revealed that the efficacy and relapse rates of low-dose isotretinoin in mild to moderate grades of acne is comparable with the standard regimen (1 mg/kg/day), which is given in the severe grade of acne vulgaris. Thus, the grade of acne vulgaris should dictate the dose of administration of isotretinoin and the standard dose of 1 mg/kg/day is an unnecessary overtreatment for mild to moderate grades of acne.