Could a diabetes drug gel fade melasma? small study pits metformin against standard cream
NCT ID NCT07345507
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.
Disclaimer
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the original study
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Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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JPMC
Karachi, Sindh, 7550, Pakistan