Isotretinoin, formerly known as Accutane, is the most effective medication for the treatment of severe acne. Other medications may or may not help severe acne or moderate versions that can be unresponsive, but isotretinoin is known to clear up most people’s acne. Around 80% of those who use isotretinoin are cured of their acne. Isotretinoin pills remain the most efficacious treatment for severe acne as well as many cases of more moderate acne that are unresponsive to other treatments. Some other conditions such as rosacea and folliculitis may also be treated with isotretinoin.
Isotretinoin is a version of high dose vitamin A that blocks processes in the body that lead to acne, such as shrinking the skin’s oil glands, reducing acne-causing bacteria on the skin, and changing the way that you shed skin cells. One course of treatment takes about 5-7 months on average; the course of treatment can take less time or a bit more depending on the individual, as dermatologists tailor the treatment to each patient. It is a medication that is usually given after other acne medicines or oral antibiotics have been tried without successful treatment of breakouts. This is a medication that requires monitoring so monthly check ups with your dermatologist are required while on this medication.