isotretinoin

Isotretinoin is a retinoid derivative of vitamin A used primarily to treat severe recalcitrant nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments such as antibiotics. It is also known as 13-cis-retinoic acid. Isotretinoin works by inducing apoptosis in sebocytes (cells in the sebaceous glands), leading to reduced sebum production and decreased formation of comedones. This action helps prevent pore blockage and reduces the growth of acne-causing bacteria. The drug alters cell cycle progression and differentiation but does not directly kill bacteria; instead it changes the skin environment to be less hospitable for them. Isotretinoin is highly teratogenic and available only under strict risk management programs like iPLEDGE due to its potential for causing severe birth defects[1][2][3][4][5][6][8]. Off-label uses include treatment of certain rare skin disorders such as harlequin-type ichthyosis and lamellar ichthyosis[5].

Brand names

AbsoricaAbsorica LDAccutaneAmnesteemClaravisClarusEpurisMyorisanSotretZenatane

Other names

13-cis-retinoic acid