Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind trial of clobetasol propionate 0.05% in the treatment of oral lichen planus

ObjectiveTo perform a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study, with a follow-up period of 6months, for the use of topical clobetasol in cases of symptomatic oral lichen planus (OLP). Subjects and MethodsThirty-two participants were analyzed, with the aims of: (I) to compare the usefulness of topically applied clobetasol propionate 0.05% (mixed with 4% hydroxyethyl cellulose gel) and 4% hydroxyethyl cellulose gel alone (considered as placebo) in the management of OLP; (II) to describe which of them is quicker in decreasing signs and reported symptoms, and (III) which is able to give the proper longer remission in the follow-up. ResultsSymptoms improved in all clobetasol-treated patients during the first 2months of therapy, while only 50% of placebo control group (p=.005) displayed similar results; of the remaining half, 12.5% did experienced a worsening while 37.5% remained stable. Regarding clinical signs, 87.5% of clobetasol-treated patients improved, while only 62.5% of the placebo-treated patients had a positive response (p=.229). ConclusionsIt is possible to report that clobetasol, at this dosage, has been more effective than a placebo at provoking symptoms improvement in subjects affected by atrophic-erosive oral lesions.