Evaluation of the efficacy and tolerance of a topical gel with 4% quassia extract in the treatment of rosacea

BACKGROUND: There are various treatment options available for rosacea, depending on the subtype, but treatment is still generally unsatisfactory. Some studies have reported antiparasitic and anti-inflammatory properties of Quassia amara. AIM: To check the efficacy and safety of a topical gel with 4% Quassia amara extract in the treatment of various grades of rosacea. METHODS: A group of 30 patients with various grades of rosacea (I-IV) were investigated in a single-center, open-label study. They were treated with a topical gel with 4% Quassia amara extract for 6 weeks. Response was evaluated by the flushing, erythema, telangiectasia, papules, and pustules scores. At the end of therapy, overall improvement, safety, and tolerability were assessed. Results: Twenty-seven of 30 patients (90%) completed the study. The treatment resulted to be very effective, and the results achieved were in line with those published with topical metronidazole and azelaic acid. Safety and tolerability were excellent. ConCLUSION: Topical quassia extract could be a new, efficient, and safe weapon in the armamentarium for the management of rosacea.