20 mg / cap – 30 capsules

Isotretinoin, also known as 13-cis retinoic acid, is an oral pharmaceutical drug primarily utilized for acne treatment. In rare cases, it is prescribed to prevent certain skin cancers and for the treatment of other cancers, as well as addressing harlequin-type ichthyosis and lamellar ichthyosis. As a retinoid related to vitamin A, it occurs naturally in small quantities in the body.

Benefits:

• Amplifies production of neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) in the skin, reducing sebum production and inducing apoptosis in sebaceous gland cells.
• Exhibits an antimicrobial effect on Propionibacterium acnes.
• Decreases the size and sebum output of sebaceous glands.
• Addresses all four major pathogenic processes in acne, distinguishing it from alternative treatments like antibiotics.
• Demonstrates efficacy, especially in severe nodulocystic cases.

Administration:

• Best absorbed when taken with a high-fat meal, doubling efficacy compared to fasting.
• Molecular resemblance to Vitamin A necessitates avoiding concurrent use with Vitamin A supplements due to the risk of cumulative overdosing.

Side Effects:

• Transient worsening of acne (lasting 2–3 weeks).
• Dry lips.
• Dry and fragile skin.
• Increased susceptibility to sunburn.
• Muscle aches and pains.
• Headaches.

Pregnancy-related Risks:

• Known to cause birth defects due to in utero exposure.
• Approximately 20%–35% risk for congenital defects in infants exposed to the drug in utero.
• About 30%–60% of children exposed to isotretinoin prenatally may exhibit neurocognitive impairment.
• Strict controls on prescribing isotretinoin to women who may become pregnant.
• Strongly advised for women who become pregnant while taking isotretinoin to terminate their pregnancies.

WARNING: DO NOT USE ISOTRETINOIN IF YOU ARE PREGNANT OR MAY BECOME PREGNANT!