Description
Isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A that is primarily used to treat severe nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments, including antibiotics. It is also used to prevent certain skin cancers (squamous-cell carcinoma), and in the treatment of other cancers. It is a retinoid, meaning it is related to vitamin A, and is found in small quantities naturally in the body.
Isotretinoin 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).
However, isotretinoin can cause serious side effects. These include problems with vision or hearing, muscle or joint pain, bone pain, back pain, increased thirst, increased urination, hallucinations, symptoms of depression, signs of liver or pancreas problems, severe stomach problems, and increased pressure inside the skull. Common side effects may include dryness of your skin, lips, eyes, or nose (you may have nosebleeds), vision problems, headache, back pain, joint pain, muscle problems, skin reactions, or cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.
Isotretinoin in just a single dose can cause severe birth defects or death of a baby. Never use isotretinoin if you are pregnant or able to become pregnant. You must have a negative pregnancy test before taking isotretinoin. You will also be required to use two forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy while taking this medicine1.
Please consult with a healthcare professional for more information and before starting any medication. This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects.
