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Isotretinoin

Latest prescription information about Isotretinoin. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Isotretinoin
Pronunciation : eye soe tret' I noyn
Therapeutic Classification : Chemotherapy
Trade Name(s): 
India- Acnex-20 Cap, Acno Gel, Acutret Cap, Adclin Softgel, Cutret Cap, Elvac Soft-Gelatin Caps, Iret Cap, Isac Cap, Iso-Aret Softgel, Isobest Cap, Isofact Soft-Gelatin Caps, Isoret Cap, Isotane Soft-Gelatin Caps, Isotin Soft-Gelatin Caps, Isotriz Soft-Gelatin Caps, Isotroin Soft-Gelatin Caps, Nextin Cap, Reto Cream, Sotret Cap, Sotret Gel, Tretiva Tab, Tufacne Cap, Zitan Cap.
International- Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : This medication is a retinoid, prescribed for acne and other skin disorders.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 

Contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients with hypersensitivity.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category X : Studies in animals or humans have demonstrated fetal abnormalities and/or there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience, and the risks involved in use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweigh potential benefits.


When it is to be taken : Adult- PO- The recommended dose range is 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg/day given in two divided doses with food for 15 to 20 weeks.
How it should be taken : It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, with food.
Special Instruction : 
* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of sugar, high blood cholesterol, mental disorder, suicidal thoughts, liver disease, osteoporosis, eating disorders, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, hearing problems, ringing in the ears, stomach pain, any allergy, who are taking other medications, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause drowsiness, vision changes or dizziness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
* Avoid alcohol consumption.
* Avoid exposure to sunlight; otherwise it may cause sunburn easily.
* Monitor pregnancy tests, cholesterol, liver function, blood sugar levels and white blood cell counts regularly while taking this medication.
Side Effects : 
Body as a Whole - Allergic reactions.
Heart - Palpitations, fast heart rate and stroke.
Metabolic - Increased blood cholesterol level.
Gastrointestinal - Inflammatory bowel disease, bleeding, inflammation of the gums, peptic ulcer and nausea.
Musculoskeletal - Bone weakness, calcification of tendons and ligaments, premature epiphyseal closure, decrease in bone mineral density including muscle/joint pain.
Central Nervous System - Dizziness, drowsiness, headache, insomnia, lethargy, uneasiness, nervousness, tingling, seizures, stroke, fainting, weakness, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, depression, psychosis, aggression and violent behaviors.
Genitourinary - Abnormal menses.
Respiratory - Asthma.
Other Precautions : 
* It may cause the bones to weaken or thicken abnormally and may increase the risk of certain bone injuries in people who perform some types of physical activity. Consult with your doctor before performing such activities.
Storage Conditions : 
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children. Store it away from light.

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