Isotretinoin (accutane) is a very powerful retinoid drug used for the treatment of severe acne. it is the pill form of tretinoin or retin a gel but stronger. Its mainly used by people who have used all forms of acne treatment including retin a gel with no results and need something stronger. Its also used for acne present for many years that has not responded completely to antibiotic pills and creams.
It is prescribed for people with severe acne that did not respond to other treatments, but has gained in popularity in the past years and is prescribed more and more frequently for less severe acne.
Three to five months of Accutane treatment usually leads to clearing of acne.
Accutane works by reducing skin oil production, changing the characteristics of the skin oil, and preventing abnormal hardening of the skin.