Treating Acne With Prescription Accutane (Isotretinoin)

Isotretinoin, more commonly known by the former brand name Accutane, is a powerful systemic drug used to treat severe inflammatory acne. Isotretinoin is classified as a retinoid, made from a synthetic form of vitamin A. It is taken orally, in pill form, once or twice daily.

Accutane has become one of the most effective treatments available for patients with severe or cystic acne, successful even for patients whose acne has not responded to other treatments. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, isotretinoin is considered the most effective prescription treatment available for severe acne. It is generally believed to successfully treat and eliminate severe acne in about half of those who take it.

A Last Resort for Severe Acne

The decision to begin taking Accutane or another isotretinoin product is something you must discuss with your dermatologist. Because of its potency and possible side effects, the medication is reserved only for those with severe inflammatory or cystic acne that has failed to respond to other treatment options. All patients taking an isotretinoin-based drug are kept under careful monitoring by their healthcare providers.

Prior to June 2009 when it was discontinued, isotretinoin was primarily sold as Accutane though it has been available as a generic drug since 2002. Isotretinoin is now sold under the brand names Amnesteem, Claravis, and Sotret.

How Isotretinoin Works

Isotretinoin works by shrinking the sebaceous glands within the dermis, reducing the amount of oil produced. The exact mechanism of this is still unknown. The reduction of oil within the follicle means less clogging of the pores, leading to a reduction of overall acne breakouts.

Common Course of Treatment

The most common treatment process consists of a 16- to 20-week course followed by a period of rest. More courses are then prescribed if sufficient clearing is not achieved. For the majority of patients, one course is all that is needed. Approximately 20 percent of patients require a second course. To avoid a relapse, patients must finish the prescribed course, even if the skin becomes clear before all the pills have been taken.

During treatment, patients are closely monitored by their healthcare providers. Patients are required to schedule regular follow-up appointments and submit to blood testing to check for possible side effects, such as liver damage and an increase in triglycerides in the blood.

Possible Side Effects

While isotretinoin is a valuable treatment for those with severe acne, it is not without side effects. The most serious side effects of this drug are miscarriage among pregnant women and severe birth defects in babies whose mothers took the medication while pregnant.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration requires women not be pregnant or become pregnant during isotretinoin use. All women who are of childbearing age are required to take two pregnancy tests prior to beginning isotretinoin treatments.

The FDA also requires women to use two forms of birth control for one month prior to treatment, during treatment, and for one month after treatment ends. Women may not breastfeed during this time. Patients who wish to become pregnant after therapy ends should talk to their healthcare provider to determine if it is safe to do so. 

The other common side effects of isotretinoin use include:

• Drying of the skin and mucous membranes
• Peeling of the skin
• Nosebleeds
• Thinning hair
• Sensitivity to the sun
• Decreased night vision
• Fatigue

Patients are warned to contact their healthcare providers if they develop any side effects. Other severe side effects may include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Bone and joint pain
• Diarrhea or rectal bleeding
• Severe chest or abdominal pain
• Difficult or painful swallowing.

Another possible side effect of isotretinoin therapy is serious changes of mood. The Center for Drug Evaluation and Research division of the FDA warns isotretinoin may cause depression, psychosis, and thoughts of suicide. Any changes in mood should be reported to your healthcare provider.

The Bottom Line

Isotretinoin has proven to be a successful acne treatment. For those who suffer from severe inflammatory or cystic acne, it may be a viable treatment option, especially if acne has not responded well to other medications. Ultimately, you and your dermatologist must decide if isotretinoin therapy is right for you.