Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid medication used mainly for severe acne. It reduces sebaceous-gland activity and changes how skin cells grow and shed.
Retinoid: A compound related to vitamin A that acts through retinoid signaling pathways. Isotretinoin belongs to this drug family, whose signaling helps regulate skin-cell growth.
Nodulocystic acne: A severe acne pattern marked by deep, painful inflammatory nodules and cyst-like lesions. This severe presentation is a common reason to consider isotretinoin.
Teratogenicity: The capacity of an exposure to cause abnormal development in an embryo or fetus. Isotretinoin is strongly teratogenic, making pregnancy avoidance essential during treatment.
Topical retinoid: A vitamin A–related medication applied to skin to treat acne and other skin conditions. Topical retinoids treat acne locally, unlike oral isotretinoin’s body-wide exposure.
Vitamin A: A group of fat-soluble nutrients essential for vision, growth, reproduction, and immune function. Isotretinoin is a synthetic compound related to vitamin A.
Sebaceous gland: A skin gland that secretes sebum, an oily substance that lubricates hair and skin. Isotretinoin markedly reduces these glands’ activity and sebum production.
Acne conglobata: A rare, severe acne form with interconnected nodules, abscesses, and scarring. Isotretinoin is used for this destructive form of acne.
Dry skin: A condition in which skin lacks moisture and may feel rough, tight, or flaky. Reduced oil production commonly causes dryness during isotretinoin treatment.
Tretinoin: A retinoid medication used topically for acne and photoaged skin, and orally for some cancers. Despite the similar name and retinoid family, tretinoin is not interchangeable with isotretinoin.
Retinoic acid: A biologically active vitamin A derivative that regulates gene expression and cell differentiation. Its relationship to retinoic acid places isotretinoin within retinoid pharmacology.