Isotretinoin

Brand Names

Isotretinoin, Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret

What is Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a prescription medicine that related to a class of medications called retinoids. It works by slowing the production of certain natural substances that can cause pimples to form. This medicine is used to treat severe nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments. It can also be effective, with long-lasting effects after a single 15- or 20-week course.

It is very important to note that Isotretinoin is very dangerous for pregnant women and there are strict rules and regulations for prescribing and dispensing it.

Side effects of Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin common side effects may include:

• red, cracked and sore lips
• dry skin, eyes, mouth or nose
• nosebleeds
• changes in skin color
• peeling skin, especially on the palms and soles
• changes in the nails
• slowed healing of cuts or sores
• bleeding or swollen gums
• hair loss or unwanted hair growth
• sweating
• flushing
• voice changes
• tiredness
• cold symptoms

If you have noticed any of these serious side effects, you should stop treatment by this medication and contact your doctor at once:

• headache
• blurred vision
• dizziness
• nausea
• vomiting
• seizures
• slow or difficult speech
• weakness or numbness of one part or side of the body
• stomach pain
• chest pain
• difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing
• new or worsening heartburn
• diarrhea
• rectal bleeding
• yellowing of the skin or eyes
• dark colored urine
• back, bone, joint or muscle pain
• muscle weakness
• difficulty hearing
• ringing in the ears
• vision problems
• painful or constant dryness of the eyes
• unusual thirst
• frequent urination
• trouble breathing
• fainting
• fast or pounding heartbeat
• fever
• rash
• red patches or bruises on the legs
• swelling of the eyes, face, lips, tongue, throat, arms, hands, feet, ankles or lower legs

Indication

Isotretinoin is prescribed to treat severe recalcitrant nodular acne (a certain type of severe acne) that has not been helped by other treatments such as antibiotics. There are many types of acne. The most common of them are:

• Whiteheads
• Blackheads
• Papules
• Pustules
• Nodules
• Cysts

Precautions

Please, do not use isotretinoin if you have:

• Depression or any other mental illness
• High triglycerides
• Liver disease, such as liver failure, hepatitis or cirrhosis
• Weak bones due to osteoporosis or other conditions
• Any allergies, including allergies to foods, dyes or preservatives
• Are breastfeeding, pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant
• Are taking any other medicines, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins and herbal supplements

Dosage forms

Dose of Isotretinoin for Acne treatment

In most cases, the recommended isotretinoin dosage is 0.5-1 mg per kg of body weight (about 0.23-0.45 mg per pound) each day, divided into 2 daily doses. For adults with severe acne or acne limited mostly to the trunk of the body, a dose of 2 mg per kg (about 0.91 mg per pound) each day, divided into two daily doses, may be necessary. Your doctor may change your dose if needed, especially if you develop bothersome side effects of isotretinoin.

Typically, isotretinoin is taken for 15-20 weeks. Your acne will continue to improve after you stop taking the medication. A second course may be recommended if your acne is still a problem eight weeks after finishing the first course.