Isotroin 10 MG Capsule
Description
Isotretinoin is primarily used as a treatment for severe acne. The most common adverse effects are a transient worsening of acne (lasting 2–3 weeks), dry lips (cheilitis), dry and fragile skin, and an increased susceptibility to sunburn. Uncommon and rare side effects include muscle aches and pains (myalgias), and headaches. Isotretinoin is known to cause birth defects due to in utero exposure because of the molecule’s close resemblance to retinoic acid, a natural vitamin A derivative which controls normal embryonic development.
Isotretinoin is the active ingredient in a prescription drug available under the brand names Sortret, Zenatane, Myorisane, Claravis, Amnesteem, and Absorica.
Doctors prescribe isotretinoin to treat a severe form of acne called recalcitrant nodular or cystic acne.
Isotretinoin and Hair Loss
One major side effect of isotretinoin is that it dries tissues, causing dry skin, cracked lips, dry mucous membranes, and dry scalp.
It may thin hair or cause it to become dry, brittle, and fragile.
This happens because isotretinoin slows down or blocks the production and secretion of the body's on own natural oils.
According to anecdotal reports, isotretinoin may not only thin hair on the head but also on the face, causing a loss of eyelashes and eyebrows.
Some people may become bald.
Although hair may regrow a few months after stopping isotretinoin, some people report that it took several years.
Others say isotretinoin caused permanent hair loss.
Isotretinoin Warnings:
The FDA has issued two black-box warnings for isotretinoin.
One requires anyone taking it comply with the iPLEDGE program.
The second bans isotretinoin from being prescribed to women who are either pregnant or are able to become pregnant.
The FDA also cautions people who use isotretinoin that it can cause serious skin reactions, some of which can be life threatening.
You should not take isotretinoin if you are:
- Pregnant or planning on getting pregnant
- Allergic to isotretinoin or any other ingredients found in the drug
- Allergic to soybean oil
- Breastfeeding
Talk to your doctor before taking isotretinoin if you have:
- Certain mood or mental conditions
- Bone cancer
- Soft or brittle bones and are prone to bone breaks (osteomalacia or osteoporosis)
- Diabetes mellitus
- Anorexia
- High cholesterol
Pregnancy and Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects and miscarriages. It should never be taken during pregnancy.
Isotretinoin passes into breast milk, so it also isn't safe to take while breastfeeding.
Side Effects
Dry lips and mouth, minor swelling of the eyelids or lips, crusty skin, nosebleeds, upset stomach, or thinning of hair may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To relieve dry mouth, suck on (sugarless) hard candy or ice chips, chew (sugarless) gum, drink water, or use a saliva substitute.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
