What Is Isotretinoin (Accutane)?

Possible Uses

The most common possible use for this medication seems to be to treat severe nodular acne. However, it appears to come with some restrictions. Doctors may only prescribe it when patients have not responded to other treatments. This may include antibiotics and other prescriptions. It looks as if isotretinoin can be used in other ways. Some doctors seem to prescribe it for moderate acne if the patient has shown resistance to other treatments. They may use this medication for acne scars too. Individuals whose acne triggers psychological distress may also qualify for this prescription. These instances appear to receive lower doses than severe nodular acne does.

Cutaneous T-cell lymphoma patients may take this medication too. It also seems to prevent squamous cell carcinoma in high-risk individuals. Dermatologists may prefer this medication for certain women at a high risk of skin cancer. These women seem to be in their child-bearing years. The reason appears to be because this medicine has a shorter half-life than others.

Learn about the potential side effects next.