Accutane is brand name for isotretinoin. It is a form of vitamin A, which reduces oil secretion from oil glands in skin. It is used for treatment for a severe form of acne called nodular acne. It is also used for treatment of simpler acne as well. Each capsule of Accutane contains other ingredients such as beeswax, butylated hydroxyanisole, edetate disodium, hydrogenated soybean oil flakes, hydrogenated vegetable oil, and soybean oil. In gelatin capsules, glycerin and parabens (methyl and propyl) are present. The chemical formula for isotretinoin is 13-cis-retinoic acid. It is a crystalline powder in yellow to orange color.

Structural formula of isotretinoin


Isotretinoin is manufactured as a generic drug too other than Accutane. Accutane was produced by Hoffman La Roche Pharmaceutical Company. The company stopped its production in 2009, but other manufacturers are still producing its generic drugs.

Uses of Accutane

It is a strong medicine and is used for acne treatment, especially severe nodular acne. The typical course of treatment takes around 4-5 months to treat all types of acne. It is given to acne patients, when other medications have failed to cure them, as it is a strong medicine and can cause side effects. It is also used to cure persistent acne, which has continued for a long period of time and has not responded to other medicines.

Precautions before taking Accutane:

  • Accutane can cause birth defects if taken by pregnant women and the FDA has warned against its birth defects related side effects. It has asked women to use at least two types of birth control and go through a pregnancy test before and while taking Accutane. It is also advisable to continue this precaution till six months after stopping the use of Accutane.
  • Vitamin supplements containing Vitamin A should be avoided while using Accutane as it is a form of vitamin A. Usage therefor can result in excess of Vitamin A and related side effects.
  • The patients using Accutane should avoid donating blood. As blood donation can cause transfusion of Accutane in the blood of patients to whom this blood is given. It can lead to side effects. Care should be taken until one month after stopping the use.
  • Do not buy Accutane through the Internet, as it can be dangerous. Use Accutane only on prescription by a doctor.
  • Do not use Accutane if you have allergy with isotretinoin or parabens.
  • If you are pregnant or planning to to become pregnant, avoid using Accutane as it can cause severe birth defects.
  • Consult your doctor before using Accutane if you or your family has history related to any mental problem.
  • If you have any heart disease, or cholesterol related problems, tell your doctor before using Accutane.
  • History of bone disorders such as osteoporosis also demands a consultation with your doctor.
  • Having diabetes, asthma, liver disease or eating disorder should also be shared with your doctor, if you are prescribed with Accutane.
  • You should tell your doctor if you have any intestinal disorder.
  • Tell your doctor, if you are using any other medicine.
  • Avoid any beauty treatment related to skin such as waxing, dermabrasion, laser treatment, etc. It can worsen the condition of your skin.
  • Do not expose your skin to ultraviolet rays while using Accutane. It can further damage your skin.

It’s not advisable to take an extra dose to compensate for missed doses of Accutane. If you take an overdose of Accutane, you should seek medical help immediately. Overdose can result into headache, dizziness, vomiting, stomach pain and swelling of the lips. Some patients can also feel warmth or stinging under the skin and loss of balance.

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