Plain-English translation of NCT06942390 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated · Translation generated · How we translate trials
Phase 2 — Testing in a bigger group (up to a few hundred people) to see if the treatment actually works and is still safe.
This trial is testing two topical medications—metformin and ketotifen—to see how well they treat melasma, a skin condition that causes dark patches, usually on the face. You'll apply these medications to different halves of your face to compare how each one works. Some participants will also receive microneedling sessions, which use tiny needles to gently puncture the skin and boost the treatment's effectiveness.
Melasma can be difficult to treat with existing options, and this medication hasn't been thoroughly tested for this condition yet. Researchers want to find out whether these creams—especially when combined with microneedling—can safely and effectively reduce the dark patches and improve patients' quality of life.
You'll visit the clinic multiple times over several months. Depending on which group you're assigned to, you may receive four microneedling sessions spaced four weeks apart, or you may skip the microneedling entirely. Either way, you'll apply the two creams to opposite halves of your face every day at home. The clinic will take photos and measure your melasma at baseline, once a month during treatment, and one month after your final visit. You'll also answer surveys about how the treatment affects your quality of life and any side effects you experience.
AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 29, 2026 · Not medical advice
Testing effectiveness
Sponsor
Assiut University
Enrollment target
~60 participants
Started
June 2025
Primary completion
June 2026
Age range
18 Years – 60 Years
Last updated on clinicaltrials.gov in April 2025.
Reach out to the team running this trial. Response times vary — some teams are faster than others.
Central contact
Sara Khaled, Resident
Assiot university
Tell us you're interested and we'll help connect you with the research team. We'll walk you through what to expect first — no email needed to get started.