How does isotretinoin acne treatment work ?
Isotretinoin is an acne medication that is typically used when other remedies have failed. In rare cases, it can be used to prevent certain types of skin cancers.
Isotretinoin belongs to a group of medicines known as retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A. Isotretinoin taken by mouth works by reducing the production of the skin's natural oil (sebum). Acne occurs due to an excessive production of sebum from over-active sebaceous glands in the skin.
What can isotretinoin treat ?
Though isotretinoin is typically used as the option of last resort for only the most severe acne, many dermatologists have prescribed it for acne that is not as severe when other treatments have failed. Because it has a known link to birth defects, isotretinoin is not recommended for pregnant women.
Those who may not qualify for acne treatment with isotretinoin also include those who have an existing medical condition such as:
- Diabetes
- Alcoholism
- Severe weight problems
- Osteoporosis
- Asthma
- Depression
- Eye or vision problems
- Hearing problems
- Heart disease
- Hepatitis
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
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