Isotretinoin
Information about Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin uses
Isotretinoin is used in the treatment of acne.
How isotretinoin works
Isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. It acts on glands (sebaceous) to reduce the production of a natural substance (sebum) that causes acne. Also, the controlled sebum production kills acne-causing bacteria. It also works as an anti-inflammatory to decrease inflammation (redness and swelling).
Common side effects of isotretinoin
Dry skin, Dry eye, Dermatitis, Dry lips, Nosebleeds, Back pain, Joint pain, Headache, Nasopharyngitis (inflammation of the throat and nasal passages), Increased creatine phosphokinase level in blood, Lip inflammation, Reduced visual acuity, Decreased calcification, Neck pain, Nausea, Agranulocytosis (deficiency of granulocytes in the blood), Hemorrhagic pancreatitis, Rhabdomyolysis, Suicidal ideation
Available Medicine for Isotretinoin
Expert advice for Isotretinoin
- You have been prescribed Isotretinoin for the treatment of severe acne.
- Take it with food.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight while using Isotretinoin. Use protective measures such as sun-cream or protective clothing.
- Avoid face waxing and laser treatment while using this medicine as it makes your skin more fragile.
- Avoid taking tetracycline as it may reduce the Isotretinoin activity.
- Do not take Isotretinoin if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- It may cause dryness of mouth, lips, and eyes. Drink plenty of water, use moisturiser and avoid wearing contact lenses. Inform your doctor if it bothers you.
Frequently asked questions for Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin
Q. Is Isotretinoin safe to use?
Isotretinoin should be used with caution since it is associated with significant adverse reactions. It should be used only by patients who have severe nodular acne who are unresponsive to conventional therapy, including systemic antibiotics. In addition, Isotretinoin should not be used by pregnant women because it can cause severe birth defects.
Q. Is Isotretinoin a steroid?
No, Isotretinoin is a retinoid (vitamin A) which is used to treat severe types of acne.
Q. What are the recommended tests during Isotretinoin therapy?
Your liver enzymes and serum lipids will be checked before the treatment is started. These levels will also be monitored 1 month after the start of treatment and subsequently at an interval of 3 months unless more frequent monitoring is clinically indicated.