Indication, Contraindication, Complication and Monitoring of Isotretinoin

Acne is the most prevalent skin disorder affecting primarily adolescents and young adults. Side effects of acne, such as scarring, dyspigmentation, and low self-esteem, can cause severe morbidity. Isotretinoin is a medication that is used to treat severe acne. The medicine was licensed by the Food and Drug Administration in 1982 to treat severe nodular acne that had been resistant to other treatments, including systemic antibiotics. Other indications of isotretinoin include moderate acne, cutaneous T-cell lymphomas, neuroblastoma, and the prevention of squamous cell carcinoma in high-risk patients. Rosacea, folliculitis, and pyoderma faciale have all been treated with isotretinoin. Some side effects are also associated with the use of isotretinoin including teratogenicity the most severe one. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about indication, contraindication, complication and monitoring of Isotretinoin. Various dermatological conditions are also treated with isotretinoin apart from the common indication of acne. Complete blood count along with the lipid profile, and liver function test are monitored in patients on isotretinoin therapy. Dry lips and dry skin are among the common side effects of isotretinoin. Due to the severe complication of teratogenicity isotretinoin is contraindicated among pregnant women. Evidence from the literature suggests that isotretinoin is the effective medication in treatment of acne and low dose of isotretinoin does not cause any complication. Evidence-based guidelines and strategies for safety and efficacy of isotretinoin can be developed by further clinical research and trials.