Could a diabetes drug gel fade melasma? small study pits metformin against standard cream

NCT ID NCT07345507

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested whether a 30% metformin gel applied nightly can reduce melasma (dark patches on the face) as well as a standard triple cream containing hydroquinone, tretinoin, and a steroid. Thirty-four adults with melasma used one of the two treatments plus sunscreen for 12 weeks. Researchers measured how much the melasma improved and tracked side effects.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: metformin gel 30% and triple combination cream (hydroquinone 2%, tretinoin 0.025%, fluocinolone acetonide 0.01%)
What this could lead to: If metformin gel works as well as the standard triple cream, it could offer a simpler, possibly cheaper option for treating melasma.
What could go wrong: This is a very small study (34 people) in one city, so results may not apply broadly. Also, metformin gel at 30% may cause skin irritation.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Melanosis

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

MELASMA

Contacts and locations

Locations

JPMC

Karachi, Sindh, 7550, Pakistan

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