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Isotretinoin

Brand names: Absorica, Claravis, Amnesteem, Zenatane

Isotretinoin is a powerful pill for severe acne that hasn't responded to other treatments. It often clears acne for good.

Brand namesAbsorica, Claravis, Amnesteem, Zenatane
Type of medicineOral retinoid (acne medicine)
Prescription?Prescription
ImportantThis page is general information, not a prescription. Don't start, stop, or change a medicine without talking to your provider or pharmacist.

Overview

It's prescribed through the iPLEDGE safety program because it causes severe birth defects.

A course usually lasts 4 to 6 months.

What it's used for

  • Severe, scarring acne

How to take it

  • Take it with food (some brands don't need food; check your label).
  • Use lip balm and moisturizer; skin and lips get very dry.
  • Don't share it or donate blood during treatment and for 1 month after.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

  • Very dry lips, skin, and eyes
  • Nosebleeds
  • Joint or muscle aches
  • Sunburning easily
Call 911Thoughts of suicide or harming yourself. Call or text 988 any time.
Call 911Severe headache with blurry vision, nausea, or vomiting (high brain pressure)
Call your provider todayDepression, mood changes, or aggressive behavior
Call your provider todaySevere belly pain or bloody diarrhea
Call your provider todayVision changes or trouble seeing at night

Warnings

  • Boxed warning: severe birth defects. People who can get pregnant must use two forms of birth control and have monthly pregnancy tests.
  • Your provider will check cholesterol and liver tests.

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

  • Tetracycline antibiotics (doxycycline, minocycline) raise the risk of high brain pressure.
  • Vitamin A supplements add to side effects.
  • Some birth control may be less effective with St. John's wort.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Never take it during pregnancy. Even one dose can cause severe birth defects.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

Sources

Last updated 2026-11-13.