Topical 2% Simvastatin for Xanthelasma Palpebrarum
30 participantsStarted 2026-08-01
Plain-language summary
This study is evaluating whether a topical cream containing 2% simvastatin can improve xanthelasma palpebrarum, a common condition that causes yellow cholesterol deposits on the eyelids. Current treatments such as surgery, laser therapy, and chemical treatments can be effective but may cause scarring, pigment changes, or recurrence.
In this randomized, double-blind, vehicle-controlled trial, 30 adults with xanthelasma will be assigned to receive either topical 2% simvastatin cream or an identical inactive vehicle cream for 24 weeks. Neither participants nor investigators will know which treatment is being used during this period. After 24 weeks, all participants will receive active simvastatin treatment for an additional 24 weeks in an open-label extension.
The study will assess changes in lesion size and appearance using standardized photography and measurements, as well as patient satisfaction, quality of life, and treatment tolerability. Results from this pilot study will help determine whether topical simvastatin may be a safe and effective non-invasive treatment option for xanthelasma and inform the design of larger future studies.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Age 18 years or older
* Clinical diagnosis of xanthelasma palpebrarum confirmed by a study investigator
* At least one measurable periocular xanthelasma lesion
* No procedural treatment to the study lesion(s) within the past 3 months, including excision, laser, cryotherapy, chemical cautery/trichloroacetic acid, electrocautery, or radiofrequency
* Capacity to provide informed consent
* Willingness to avoid other treatments for xanthelasma during the study
Exclusion Criteria:
* Known allergy or sensitivity to any study cream ingredient
* Active periocular inflammatory disease
* Use of topical eyelid treatments within the past 4 weeks, including topical corticosteroids, retinoids, acid peels, depigmenting agents, compounded creams, or over-the-counter eye creams containing active ingredients
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding
* Participation in another interventional clinical trial
* Current unstable systemic lipid-lowering therapy
* Initiation of, or dose change to, oral statin therapy within the past 8 weeks
* Any condition judged by the investigator to make participation unsafe
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.