Isotretinoin is a medication used to treat severe acne that hasn't responded well to other treatments. It's a synthetic form of vitamin A and belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids. Isotretinoin works by reducing the size and activity of the sebaceous (oil) glands in the skin, which in turn leads to reduced production of skin oil (sebum). This can help prevent clogged pores and the formation of acne lesions.
Isotretinoin is known by several brand names, including Accutane, Claravis, and Myorisan, among others. It's typically prescribed for severe forms of acne, such as nodular or cystic acne, which can cause significant scarring if left untreated. The treatment is usually a course of several months, and it often provides long-lasting or even permanent results in controlling severe acne.
However,
isotretinoin is a potent medication and is associated with a range of potential side effects, including dry skin, chapped lips, elevated triglyceride levels, and, in rare cases, more severe side effects. It should be used under the guidance of a healthcare provider, and patients taking isotretinoin are typically closely monitored throughout their treatment. It's also known to cause birth defects, so it should never be taken during pregnancy.
1
