Accutane (Isotretinoin)

Isotretinoin (trade name: Accutane) is a powerful drug used in the treatment of... more

Isotretinoin (trade name: Accutane) is a powerful drug used in the treatment of moderate to severe cystic acne that left untreated would leave deep scars. Four to five months of Accutane treatment usually clears up this cystic acne and also reduces the number of minor breakouts. Accutane is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A and is detectable in the bloodstream of all people. Vitamin A in large doses has the same effects as Accutane, both good and bad.

While Accutane has many side effects, in some ways Accutane is safer than long-term antibiotic usage. Most other acne-controlling medicines are antibacterial agents, which are effective only if used daily. Over two million people have taken this drug, so a lot is known about Accutane's safety and effectiveness. Patients on Accutane require monthly blood tests to see if Accutane is altering their liver function.