Comedoclastin in maintenance therapy of acne

Acne is a socially significant dermatosis characterized by a chronic, recurring course that predominantly affects adolescents. Currently, systemic isotretinoin is the gold standard for acne treatment, particularly in severe cases. However, despite its high efficacy, maintaining remission and preventing relapses remains a major challenge. Objective. To evaluate the efficacy and safety of Comedoclastin (a botanical extract derived from milk thistle) as maintenance therapy for acne after completing a course of systemic isotretinoin. Materials and methods. A total of 60 patients were enrolled and divided into two groups. Patients in Group 1 (n=30) received Comedoclastin as maintenance therapy once daily at bedtime, while those in Group 2 (n=30) received standard therapy with adapalene 0.1% twice weekly at bedtime. The Dermatology Life Quality Index and drug tolerability were assessed in the patients, and sebumetry was performed. Results. After 12 months of follow-up, patients in Groups 1 and 2 remained in remission, and their sebum levels stayed within the physiological range. Adverse events, specifically irritant dermatitis, were observed in only 16.7% of patients in Group 2. By the end of the follow-up period, no decline in quality of life was recorded in any of the patients. Conclusion. Comedoclastin is effective and safe for the maintenance therapy of acne and is non-inferior to the standard treatment (adapalene 0.1%). The product demonstrates a favorable tolerability profile without inducing irritant dermatitis, making it suitable for maintenance therapy, especially in patients with sensitive facial skin.