Isotretinoin is a medication that is used to treat severe acne, which typically involves more than just minor bumps that resolve within a few days. Large cysts or red lumps that cover most of the skin are common in people with severe acne.

Severe acne can also result in swelling, scarring, and hard, painful sores. If other treatments fail to control acne, isotretinoin is typically administered orally. However, this medication can have major negative effects. Because it is a potent medication, a doctor must strictly supervise its use.

What is isotretinoin?

Isotretinoin is used to treat severe acne, also called acne vulgaris. Other therapies are usually ineffective for this type of acne, which can produce blistering, redness, itching, and inflammation.

Isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative, acts in a variety of ways to treat severe acne.

• Reduces excessive sebum production
• Changes how skin cells develop and shed
• Reduces the antibacterial activity of Propionibacterium acnes indirectly, specifically by decreasing sebum as a food supply for bacteria
• Reduces inflammation, redness, and edema caused by severe acne

Isotretinoin is commonly administered in the form of an oral capsule. The illness and patient response determine the dosage and length of treatment. Treatment typically lasts 15–20 weeks, but might go longer if necessary.

Isotretinoin side effects

Although isotretinoin is an effective treatment for severe acne, there are some side effects to be aware of.

Common side effects of isotretinoin include the following:

• Dry nose and nosebleeds
• Dry and chapped lips
• Dry eyes
• Dry skin

Use of isotretinoin may result in severe adverse effects, including:

• Changes in bone growth, particularly in individuals who are still developing, in which certain bones cease to grow prematurely
• Buzzing in the ears and hearing loss
• An increase in triglycerides
• Symptoms of dizziness, nausea, vomiting, severe migraines, and changes in vision are indicative of elevated pressure in the brain.
• Indigestion or severe abdominal discomfort that extends to the back
• Severe diarrhea or bloody diarrhea
• Damage to the liver
• Mood swings, irritability, and depression
• The skin becomes very sensitive to sunlight
• Severe allergic reaction
• Severe skin reactions such as painful red or purple skin, flat red rashes, blisters on the skin, mouth, nose, and genitals
• Suicide or death thoughts
• Scar tissue on the cornea that causes night-time difficulty seeing
• Decrease in bone density raises the fracture risk
• Problems with muscles where damage results can be really severe
• Increased blood sugar levels

Close monitoring by a doctor and a comprehensive comprehension of potential side effects are necessary for the safe administration of isotretinoin. It is important to seek the advice of a doctor when administering isotretinoin. Do not change the dosage or the timing of administration unless your doctor tells you to. Be sure to let them know if you experience any serious symptoms, including severe headaches, stomach pain, changes in eyesight, changes in mood, evidence of infection, or muscle pain.

If you have other questions about acne problems, you can either visit a doctor or make use of the consultation features that are available in the Ai Care

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