What is Isotroin (Isotretinoin) used for?

Isotroin (Isotretinoin) is prescribed for the treatment of severe cystic acne that has not cleared up in response to milder medications such as antibiotics. It works on the oil glands within the skin, shrinking them and diminishing their output.

Isotroin (Isotretinoin) capsules contain the active ingredient isotretinoin. Isotretinoin belongs to a group of medicines known as retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A. Isotretinoin taken by mouth works by reducing the production of the skin's natural oil (sebum). Acne occurs due to an excessive production of sebum from over-active sebaceous glands in the skin. The sebum blocks the sebaceous glands, which prevents the oil from flowing freely out and causes an accumulation of sebum under the skin. The bacteria associated with acne thrive in these conditions. They feed on the sebum, and produce waste products and fatty acids that irritate the sebaceous glands, making them inflamed and causing spots.

Isotretinoin decreases the size and activity of the sebaceous glands in the skin, which reduces the amount of sebum that is produced. This stops the glands becoming blocked, and means bacteria are less likely to thrive. It also reduces the inflammation in the skin.

How should I use Isotroin (Isotretinoin)?

The recommended dosage range for Isotroin is 0.5 to 1 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into 2 doses daily, for 15 to 20 weeks. For very severe cases, the physician may increase the daily dose to as much as 2 milligrams per 2.2 pounds. If after a period of 2 months or more off therapy, severe cystic acne persists, your physician may prescribe a second course of therapy.

What are the side effects of Isotroin (Isotretinoin)?

• Dry skin
• Dryness of the mucous membranes
• Headache
• Increased liver enzymes
• Disturbances in the composition of the blood
• Pain in the muscles and joints
• Mood changes
• Strange or abnormal thoughts
• Depression
• Hair loss
• Visual disturbances
• Inflammation of the surface of the eye
• Breathing difficulties due to a narrowing of the airways
• Nausea
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Inflammation of the pancreas
• Abnormal reaction of the skin to light
• Bone disorders

Please Note

While taking Isotroin (Isotretinoin), do not take vitamin supplements containing vitamin A. Isotretinoin and vitamin A are chemically related; taking them together is like taking an overdose of vitamin A. Isotretinoin should not be combined with tetracycline antibiotics such as Doryx, Minocin, and Vibramycin. Isotretinoin causes birth defects; do not use it while pregnant. Nursing mothers should not take Isotretinoin because of the possibility of passing the drug on to the baby via breast milk.