Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Ciprofloxacin in Comparison to Clindamycin Solutions on Acne Vulgaris

Background: Acne vulgaris is a common skin conditions; about 74% of patients with acne have moderate to severe effect on their quality of life. Acne management aims to alleviate symptoms, clear existing lesions, limit disease activity by preventing new lesions forming and scars developing and avoid negative impact on quality of life. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of both Clindamycin and Ciprofloxacin solutions topically in the treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris.Method: A single blinded therapeutic trial that was conducted at Baghdad Teaching Hospital/ department of dermatology, out clinic, for the period (April 2019 - March 2020). All patients with mild - moderate acne vulgaris attended to the out clinic of dermatology were enrolled in the study. Sixty six patients were participated in this study and divided in to 2 groups (Ciprofloxacin group: 33 patients were treated topically with Ciprofloxacin solution 2% and Clindamycin group: 33 patients were treated topically with Clindamycin solution 1.5%). The important ethical approval and formal consent was obtained from MOH and patients respectively. Severity index was recorded. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS V26.Results: Mean acne severity index (ASI) for Ciprofloxacin group in the first visit was significantly higher than that at week 12th after topical application of Ciprofloxacin. Total percent reduction was 32.3% (P<0.001). Mean ASI for Clindamycin group in the first visit was significantly higher than that at week 12th after topical application of Finasteride. Total percent reduction was 31.8% (P<0.001). No statistical significant among both groups regarding the reduction in comedones mean; P>0.05. Statistical significant was observed among Ciprofloxacin group regarding the reduction of papules and pustules in comparison to Clindamycin group; P<0.05Conclusion: Ciprofloxacin and clindamycin when used topically are all effective in treatment of mild to moderate acne vulgaris. Both have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions