What is Isotretinoin?

Isotretinoin is a prescription medication. Isotretinoin is used to treat severe acne. Severe acne causes large, deep, painful cysts and nodules. When the acne clears, it often leaves scars behind. This type of acne can be difficult to treat. When other treatments fail, isotretinoin may be an option. This treatment often results in a prolonged, may be permanent, clearance of acne.

How to Use Isotretinoin

Before your doctor can prescribe this medication, you must enroll in a USFDA program, agree to see your dermatologist for follow-ups, and sign forms stating that you understand the risks of isotretinoin.

Precautions

Speak to your doctor about any medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal or dietary supplements, as well as any other acne treatment you are currently taking. Tell your doctor if:

  • You have allergies
  • Are pregnant, plan to become pregnant or are breast-feeding
  • Have HIV, AIDS, RA, psoriasis, or graft vs. host disease

Side Effects

If a pregnant person takes this medication it may result in miscarriage, stillbirth or severe birth defects. You must have two negative pregnancy tests before beginning treatment, take two forms of birth control, and have a monthly pregnancy test for the duration of this treatment.

Common side effects include:

  • Dry, irritated eyes
  • Dry mouth
  • Nosebleeds
  • Dry skin
  • Chapped lips

Once you stop taking the medication, these symptoms will clear. In the meantime, use moisturizer, lip balm, and artificial tears. Applying petroleum jelly just inside the nose keeps the tissue moist and may prevent nosebleeds.

While you take this medication you will be more sensitive to the sun so take precautions. It is also important to realize that your acne may get worse when you first begin treatment, but it should clear in 1-2 months. You may also experience thinning hair, muscle or joint pain, and trouble seeing at night. When you stop taking the medication, these should resolve, and any lost hair will grow back.

Isotretinoin Online Prescription for Severe Cystic Acne

Make a virtual appointment today with one of our online dermatologists to discuss getting an isotretinoin online prescription for severe cystic acne.