Actively Recruiting
The Effects of Sarecycline Versus Doxycycline on the Gut Microbiome and Skin Microbiome in Acne
Led by Integrative Skin Science and Research · Updated on 2026-04-22
30
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
8 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
I
Integrative Skin Science and Research
Lead Sponsor
A
Almirall, S.A.
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are studying how the bacteria in the gut and on the skin change in people with acne vulgaris when treated with either Sarecycline or Doxycycline. This trial aims to compare the effects of these two medications on the bacteria profiles and understand how each treatment may influence the presence of different bacteria types, including resistant bacteria and fungi. The study is a Phase 4, randomized clinical trial involving individuals with acne vulgaris who have a defined number of inflammatory and non-inflammatory lesions. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups: one group will receive Sarecycline tablets once daily, with the dose based on body weight (60 mg, 100 mg, or 150 mg), while the other group will receive Doxycycline at 100 mg twice daily. Both medications are taken with food and a full glass of water. Treatment and observation last for 4 to 8 weeks, with specific measurements taken at the end of this period to evaluate changes in the bacteria and fungi on the skin and in the gut. During the study, participants will be monitored for changes in the types and amounts of bacteria and fungi present in their gut and skin microbiomes. Researchers will assess acne severity through lesion counts and investigator evaluations. The study also tracks the presence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and genes related to fatty acid production. The total participation time includes treatment and follow-up visits to collect samples and clinical data, ensuring comprehensive monitoring of treatment effects and safety.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Comparing Sarecycline and Doxycycline Effects on the Skin and Gut Bacteria in Acne.
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Diagnosis of acne vulgaris with at least 10 inflammatory lesions (papules, pustules, nodules) and up to 100 noninflammatory lesions (open and closed comedones)
- No more than 2 nodules on the face
- Participants aged 9 years and older
You will not qualify if you...
- Dermatological conditions on the face or facial hair that could interfere with evaluations
- Use of topical acne medications, benzoyl peroxide, anti-inflammatories, or corticosteroids within 2 weeks prior to randomization
- Use of systemic antibiotics, systemic acne treatments, oral probiotic supplements, or systemic corticosteroids within 4 weeks prior to randomization
- Use of systemic retinoids within 12 weeks prior to randomization
- Change in hormonal contraception or therapies within 3 months prior to joining the study
- Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals
- Use of oral contraceptive pills or hormone therapies unless stable for at least 2 months
- Use of finasteride or dutasteride
- Current tobacco smokers or those with more than 5 pack-years smoking history
- Any other condition interfering with study participation or safety
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 4 weeks
Participants receive either sarecycline or doxycycline medication daily to treat acne and study effects on skin and gut bacteria.
Weekly visits for up to 4 weeks
Duration - Up to 4 weeks after treatment
Participants continue to be monitored for changes in the skin microbiome after treatment ends.
1 to 2 visits depending on participant response
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Integrative Research Institute
Sacramento, California, United States, 95819
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
N
Nasima Afzal Chief Operating Officer
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
2
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