Could a Once-a-Week acne pill replace daily antibiotics?

NCT ID NCT06225570

Recruiting now Disease control Sponsor: Medical University of South Carolina Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study compares a weekly dose of isotretinoin (a vitamin A derivative) to daily tetracycline antibiotics for treating moderate acne. Researchers want to see if the weekly approach works just as well, with fewer side effects and less reliance on antibiotics. The trial will enroll 50 people aged 12 and older and track acne improvement, side effects, and patient satisfaction over four months.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Isotretinoin (a vitamin A derivative) taken weekly, compared to standard tetracycline antibiotics taken daily
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new, safer way to treat moderate acne with fewer side effects and less antibiotic use.
What could go wrong: This is a very early (Phase 1) trial with only 50 people, so results may not hold up in larger studies. Isotretinoin has known side effects like dry skin and mood changes.

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

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ACNE VULGARIS are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

acne Acne Vulgaris

As listed by the trial registrant

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

ACNE VULGARIS

Contacts and locations

Locations

Medical University of South Carolina
RECRUITING

Charleston, South Carolina, 29403, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.