Isotretinoin for rosacea

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a form of vitamin A. Isotretinoin is usually only used for severe rosacea or rosacea that has not responded to antibiotics. It works by unclogging skin pores and shrinking oil glands. Isotretinoin has been effective in treating cases of rosacea that have not responded to other treatment.¹

Isotretinoin nay cause serious side effects, such as mood changes, high triglyceride levels, liver damage, fatigue, and hair loss.

Note: Women who are pregnant or may become pregnant should not take isotretinoin because of the risk of serious side effects such as miscarriage and birth defects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires companies that make isotretinoin to register doctors who prescribe isotretinoin and the people who take isotretinoin. The program tries to ensure that people taking this medicine understand the risk of birth defects, take precautions to avoid pregnancy, and know what to do if they become pregnant. If your doctor suggests that you take isotretinoin, you must register with iPLEDGE to get the medicine. You can get more information and register at www.ipledgeprogram.com or by telephone at 1-866-495-0654 (toll-free).

Citations

1. Plewig G, Jansen T (2003). Rosacea. In IM Freedberg et al., eds., Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine, 6th ed., vol. 1, pp. 688–696. New York: McGraw-Hill.