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Isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. It helps fight severe and refractory forms of acne. It is found in drugs that are used both orally and externally. Isotretinoin is very potent and therefore causes a number of side effects. What ailments can it cause?
What is isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin (izotek) is an active ingredient used in medicines such as Izotek and Akneromin (available only by prescription). It is used in the treatment of severe acne, resistant to milder drugs, e.g. antibacterials. It eliminates lightning, focused, pyoderma and nodular-cystic acne. Isotretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A. It stops the growth of sebaceous glands and reduces their activity. Thus, it regulates the secretion of sebum and prevents clogging of the pores. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect.
Isotretinoin – dosage
A physician should decide on the dosage of isotretinoin. According to general recommendations, it should be taken drugs with isotretinoin at mealtime, once or twice a day. Standard treatment lasts from 16 to 24 weeks. In the event of a recurrence or an unsatisfactory effect, the treatment can be repeated with a break of at least 8 weeks.
Who Shouldn’t Take Isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin, due to its condensed composition and strong action, is not safe for everyone. The contraindications to its use include:
- pregnancy and breastfeeding,
- liver failure
- high levels of lipids (e.g. cholesterol) in the blood
- excess vitamin A in the body,
- taking tetracycline antibiotics and preparations with vitamin A,
- hypersensitivity to isotretinoin.
Isotretinoin – side effects
Isotretinoin has a number of side effects that make treating severe acne cumbersome and even painful. It is a heavy burden on the liver, therefore, during the treatment, you should regularly perform liver tests and refrain from drinking alcohol. In diabetics and obese people, treatment should be carried out with simultaneous control of the level of transaminases and glucose concentration.
Isotretinoin can cause anemia and depression. It very often causes drying of the skin and mucous membranes, which results, among others, in itching of the epidermis, stomach discomfort and nosebleeds. Among the common side effects of isotretinoin they are also:
- anemia,
- skin hypersensitivity,
- erythematous rash,
- headaches,
- hematuria and proteinuria.
Less common are skin allergic reactions, alopecia and mood swings. In extreme cases treatment with isotretinoin ends with psychotic disorders, cataracts, keratitis, hearing impairment, hemorrhagic diarrhea, pancreatitis or hepatitis. While taking the drug, you should stay in touch with your doctor, and if you notice any disturbing symptoms, go to the emergency room.