Isotretinoin 20mg

Isotretinoin 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Isotretinoin 20mg is prescribed for severe nodular or cystic acne that has not improved with other treatments such as antibiotics or topical creams.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Severe, cystic, or scarring acne
• Acne that keeps coming back after other treatments
• Acne causing significant scarring or psychological distress

HOW IT WORKS

• Shrinks the oil (sebaceous) glands in the skin
• Reduces oil (sebum) production significantly
• Helps normalise skin cell shedding to prevent clogged pores
• Has mild anti-inflammatory action on acne lesions

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Mild acne that responds to creams or gels
• Acne in pregnant or breastfeeding women
• General skin dryness or ageing skin concerns
• Rosacea or eczema

This medicine is given as a supervised course over several months, with the dose and duration decided by your dermatologist based on your body weight and response.

How to Use Isotretinoin 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your dermatologist, usually once or twice a day
• Swallow the capsule whole with a meal to improve absorption
• Do not crush, chew, or open the capsule
• Continue the full course even if acne appears to improve early, as sudden stopping can lead to relapse
• Use a lip balm and moisturiser regularly as skin dryness is expected
• Avoid waxing, laser treatments, or harsh skin procedures during and shortly after treatment

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss several doses, inform your doctor before continuing

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct heat and sunlight
• Keep in the original blister pack until use
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not store in the bathroom where it may get damp

Isotretinoin 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dry lips and skin
• Dry or irritated eyes
• Nosebleeds due to dry nasal lining
• Mild itching or peeling of skin
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Joint or muscle pain
• Hair thinning
• Mood changes or irritability
• Nail fragility
• Raised cholesterol or triglyceride levels on blood tests

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Severe headache with blurred vision or nausea
• Yellowing of skin or eyes, or dark urine (liver problems)
• Severe abdominal pain (possible pancreatitis or bowel inflammation)
• Signs of depression, anxiety, or suicidal thoughts
• Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing
• Vision problems or reduced night vision

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Isotretinoin 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and must not be used without a dermatologist's supervision and regular monitoring.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are breastfeeding
• Have a known allergy to isotretinoin or other retinoids
• Have severe liver disease
• Have very high blood fat (lipid) levels that are uncontrolled

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Are a woman of childbearing age (reliable contraception is required during and after treatment)
• Have diabetes, depression, or a history of mental health conditions
• Have kidney or liver problems
• Are taking vitamin A supplements
• Have a history of bone or joint problems

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Tetracycline antibiotics (increased risk of raised brain pressure)
• Other vitamin A-containing products or supplements
• Certain acne medicines applied on skin
• Corticosteroids or medicines affecting liver enzymes

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I get pregnant while taking this medicine?

No, isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects, so effective contraception is essential during and for some time after treatment.

Will my acne get worse before it gets better?

Some people notice initial flare-up or dryness in the first few weeks, which usually settles as treatment continues.

Can I drink alcohol during treatment?

• It is best to avoid or limit alcohol, as it can add to liver strain and worsen blood fat levels.
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