Isotretinoin is a type of medication for the treatment of acne. It reduces the skin’s secretion of sebum, the oily substance that leads to the spread of acne in the face.

Isotretinoin is usually recommended to teenagers and young adults who have severe cases of acne. Severe acne can cause permanent damage or scarring in the skin. With Isotretinoin, less secretion of sebum results to less incidents of inflammation and scar formation.

Isotretinoin is used to cure severe acne that has not been treated well by more conservative treatment options like creams, antibiotics, and drying agents. Improvement is usually seen by patients after 15 weeks of use of this medication. Since it can result to serious side effects, it is recommended that this medication is used only by people who have severe or persistent acne.

The usual daily dosage recommended for Isotretinoin is up to 2 milligrams for every kilogram of the patient’s body weight. This dosage is taken in two separate doses up to 15-20 weeks. This medication is administered orally and can be taken on an empty stomach to improve its absorption.

Patients must swallow capsules wholly. The capsules should never be crushed or chewed. It should also be taken with a glass full of water. Patients should not lie down for half an hour after taking this medication.

A second course may begin 2 months after the first course of treatment in case severe acne reappears. However it is not recommended that patients use Isotretinoin continuously.

Patients may experience side effects with the use of Isotretinoin such as dry nose and skin, itching, nosebleeds, and dry mouth. They may also notice cracks located in their mouth’s corners and inflamed white part of the eyes.

Patients may also experience joint aches as well as increase in their blood cholesterol level and triglycerides.

Patients may also experience mental problems like hallucinations, depression, and even suicidal tendencies.

Rarer side effects include skin infections, sensitivity to the sun, peeling, hepatitis, and hearing impairment. There is also a risk of brain swelling which can result to headache, vision changes, vomiting, and nausea.

Before using Isotretinoin, patients should inform their doctors or pharmacists about their medical history particularly if they have had diabetes, high blood fats, psychiatric disorders, pancreatitis, liver disease, bone loss, or any allergies.

Patients should not donate blood while they are using this medication, or after a month after ceasing the treatment.

Patients should avoid direct exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. They should use sunscreen and protective clothing if they have to go outdoors. This medication can also affect a person’s night vision.

Undergoing any type of cosmetic surgery for smooth skin such as laser, waxing, or demabrasion is also discouraged during the therapy and six months after it. Patients may suffer from skin scarring if they do so.

It is also advised that patients refrain from taking alcohol since it can increase the risks of side effects such as pancreatitis.