Isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a highly effective treatment for severe acne, for acne which has not responded to other treatments, or for acne which is causing marked psychological distress. It can be taken by men or women. It can help to prevent any further scarring in severe types of acne, and is excellent at treating cysts, blackheads and greasy skin. It is only prescribed by specialist doctors and is often referred to as 'Roaccutane", or in the USA as 'Accutane'.

 

Before taking isotretinoin, a fasting blood test for liver function and lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) is needed, which it may be possible to have taken at your GP surgery. Women wishing to take isotretinoin must not become pregnant during their treatment, and will need effective contraception from a month before beginning the treatment, until a month after discontinuing it (for example the contraceptive coil, the contraceptive implant, or taking the contraceptive pill plus using barrier contraception.)

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Isotretinoin is taken for several months (between 4 and 12 months, depending on the dose), until the acne has cleared up. For most people, the acne does not come back after isotretinoin is stopped. During the treatment, the lips will be dry, and lip salve will need to be applied frequently. The skin may feel a little dryer, especially on the arms.

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Before making an appointment, it is helpful to have read the patient information leaflet on isotretinoin of the British Association of Dermatologists at https://www.bad.org.uk/pils/isotretinoin.