Isotretinoin - Drug Information
Generic Name : Isotretinoin
Pronunciation : eye soe tret' I noyn
ICD Code : Y56.9 | Therapeutic Classification : Miscellaneous Dermatologicals
Trade Name(s) :
India - Acno Gel, A -RET (0.05%), A -Ret (0.1%), Acnex -20, Acno, Acnon, Acnon Gel, Acutret, Acutret (20 mg), Acutret (5 mg), Airol, Aknoroy, Aknoroy (10 gm), Clincheek -T, Clincheek -T (0.05%), Comedolytic, Cutret, Cutret (200mg), Elvac-SG, Eudyna, Iret, Isac, Isac (20 mg), Isinim, Isinin, Isobest, Isofact SG (10mg), Isofact SG (20mg), Isofect, IsonionInternational - Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret.
Why is Isotretinoin Prescribed? (Indications)
This medication is a retinoid, prescribed for acne and other skin disorders. It reduces skin oil production, changing the characteristics of the skin oil, and preventing abnormal hardening of the skin.When should Isotretinoin not to be taken? (Contraindications)
Contraindicated in pregnant women and in patients with hypersensitivity.What is the dosage of Isotretinoin?
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 should Isotretinoin be taken?
It comes as a capsule to take by mouth, with food.What are the warnings and precautions for Isotretinoin?
* 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.
What are the side effects of Isotretinoin?
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.