Isotretinoin
Pronounced
"eye-so-tret-ih-NO-in"
Uses
This medication is used to treat severe cystic acne (also known as nodular acne) that has not responded to other treatment (such as benzoyl peroxide or clindamycin applied to the skin or tetracycline or minocycline taken by mouth). It belongs to a class of drugs known as retinoids. It works by decreasing facial oil (sebum) production. High amounts of sebum can lead to severe acne. If left untreated, severe acne may cause permanent scarring.
Warning
Women who are pregnant must not use isotretinoin. Women must avoid becoming pregnant while taking this medication. Serious (sometimes fatal) birth defects, miscarriages, and premature births have occurred when this drug has been used during pregnancy.
For female patients, two effective forms of birth control (or complete avoidance of sexual intercourse) must be used for 1 month before starting isotretinoin, during use, and for 1 month after stopping this drug. You must also have monthly pregnancy-avoidance counseling from your doctor. Do not use "minipills" for birth control (non-estrogen-containing pills) since they may not work as well with isotretinoin. If you are late in having your period, or if you have sexual intercourse at any time without using two effective forms of birth control, stop taking this medication and contact your doctor right away. (See also the Precautions section.)
To receive this medication in the United States, you must understand, agree to, and carefully follow the requirements of the iPLEDGE REMS Program. If you live in Canada or any other country, consult your doctor and pharmacist for your country's regulations.
Talk with your doctor about the risks and benefits of using this medication.
Other Uses
This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.
This drug may also be used for a certain type of cancer (neuroblastoma).
How to Use This Medication
Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using isotretinoin and each time you get a refill. Read and sign a Patient Information/Informed Consent form before you start taking this medication. If you have any questions about isotretinoin, consult your doctor or pharmacist before taking the medication.
Take this medication by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually twice daily for 15 to 20 weeks. Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew them. Some brands of this drug say to take this medication with meals while other brands say that it may be taken with or without food. Food helps increase absorption of this drug into your bloodstream. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Take this medication with a full glass of water (8 ounces/240 milliliters) unless your doctor directs you otherwise. Do not lie down for at least 10 minutes after taking this medication.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, weight, and response to treatment.
Your acne may worsen during the first few days of taking this drug, and it may take up to 1-2 months before you notice the full benefit of this medication. If severe acne returns, a second course of treatment may be started after you have stopped taking the drug for 2 months. The manufacturer does not recommend long-term use of isotretinoin. Do not take more than the recommended dose.
Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the capsules.
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