Isotretinoin (oral)

About isotretinoin (oral)

Isotretinoin works by reducing the production of the skin's natural oil.

Before taking isotretinoin (oral)

Before taking isotretinoin (oral) make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

• If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
• If you have kidney or liver problems.
• If you are allergic to peanuts.
• If you suffer from dry eye syndrome.
• If you are currently taking antibiotics.
• If you have ever suffered from depression.
• If you suffer from diabetes mellitus.
• If you are overweight.
• If you have a history of alcoholism.
• If you suffer from high levels of fat in your blood, such as cholesterol.
• If you suffer from a condition called hypervitaminosis A (too much vitamin A stored in your body).

How to take isotretinoin (oral)

• Take these capsules with food.
• Your dose may change - follow the instructions given to you by your doctor.
• Isotretinoin is usually started by a hospital doctor.

Getting the most from your treatment

• Isotretinoin will damage an unborn baby, or cause a miscarriage. Therefore it is very important that women taking isotretinoin do not get pregnant.
• If you are female, your doctor will explain the dangers of isotretinoin on an unborn baby and discuss the use of at least one form of contraception. One method of contraception must be a barrier form, such as condoms. Contraception is needed at least 1 month before starting treatment, during treatment, and for at least 1 month after stopping treatment.
• If you are female, your doctor will do a pregnancy test, and this must be negative before starting treatment.
• You will need to have regular blood tests since anaemia, low levels of white blood cells, raised cholesterol, raised glucose levels in the blood and changes in your liver function may occur.
• Your doctor may check your urine for the presence of protein.
• Do not take vitamin supplements that contain vitamin A whilst taking isotretinoin.
• Do not donate blood while taking isotretinoin, and for one month after stopping treatment.
• Sometimes, acne can get worse at the start of treatment, but this should resolve in 7 - 10 days.
• Avoid exposure to the sun (use sunblock on body and lips), and any skin treatments.
• Avoid hair removal by waxing, dermabrasion and laser skin treatment during and for 6 months after treatment.
• Night-vision may become worse, therefore avoid driving or operating machinery at night if this happens.
• Stop taking isotretinoin if you have bloody diarrhoea.

Can isotretinoin (oral) cause problems

Along with their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects, which usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine. Speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome.

How to store isotretinoin (oral)

• Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
• Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

Important information about all medicines