Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is a potent vitamin A derivative (retinoid) used to treat severe, nodular acne that has not responded to conventional therapies. It works by dramatically reducing sebum (oil) production, normalizing skin cell turnover, and decreasing inflammation. Due to its significant side effect profile, it is typically reserved for severe, treatment-resistant cases under close medical supervision.
A powerful retinoid for severe nodular acne that reduces oil production and inflammation but requires careful monitoring due to serious potential side effects.
This medication carries a boxed (black box) warning — the strongest type of FDA warning. Review the full prescribing information before use.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- D10AD04
- RxNorm
- 6064
- Generic
- Isotretinoin
- Class
- atc-d10
- Brands
- Myorisan, Absorica, Zenatane, Accutane, Amnesteem, Sotret, Claravis
- Availability
- rx
- Pregnancy
- X
- Lactation
- unsafe
- Routes
- topical, oral
- Forms
- gel, capsule
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Treatment of severe, recalcitrant nodular or cystic acne that has failed to respond to conventional therapies (including systemic antibiotics). May also be used for other dermatological conditions such as severe rosacea, severe keratinization disorders, and certain types of keratosis pilaris in some cases.
Isotretinoin binds to nuclear retinoid receptors and regulates gene expression. It dramatically reduces sebum production by up to 90%, normalizes follicular keratinization to prevent pore clogging, has anti-inflammatory properties, and reduces colonization by Cutibacterium acnes bacteria.
Highly teratogenic - women of childbearing potential must enroll in a pregnancy prevention program (iPLEDGE). Requires regular monitoring including lipid panels and liver function tests. Common side effects include mucocutaneous dryness, cheilitis, and photosensitivity. Depression and psychiatric effects have been reported; causal relationship is unclear but patients should be monitored. Must be dispensed with a medication guide and only prescribed by clinicians registered with the REMS program.
Official drug label
WellAlly may earn a referral fee from linked resources at no extra cost to you. Editorial content is never influenced by commercial relationships.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy