Efficacy of Combined Oral Isotretinoin and Desloratadine or Levocetirizine vs. Isotretinoin Monotherapy in Treating Acne Vulgaris: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Acne vulgaris is a widespread, chronic inflammatory skin condition that significantly impacts patients' quality of life. Although oral isotretinoin remains the most effective treatment, recent evidence suggests that H1-antihistamines such as desloratadine and levocetirizine may enhance acne therapy. This study assesses whether combining H1-antihistamines to isotretinoin enhances treatment efficacy in acne vulgaris compared to isotretinoin alone. Methods: Our analysis included 10 randomized controlled trials involving 675 patients collectively, predominantly from Asia and the Middle East. Data were extracted by two independent reviewers, with discrepancies resolved by a third. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Analyses were performed using RevMan 5.4 with random-effects models, and heterogeneity was evaluated via I2 and Q tests. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess result robustness. Results: Combination therapy with isotretinoin and desloratadine showed a significantly greater reduction in GAGS (Global Acne Grading Scale) score by week 12 (p < 0.00001; MD 2.68, 95% CI 1.60 to 3.75; I2 = 0%) while earlier timepoints showed non-significant or borderline results. For inflammatory lesions, significant improvements with desloratadine emerged at weeks 4, 8, and 12 after excluding an influential outlier, with low heterogeneity and consistent direction of effect. Non-inflammatory lesions did not differ significantly at weeks 4…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 675 participants or records.
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