Description

Accutane, Roaccutane – Tretizen 10mg Capsules (Spain) Isotretinoin, also known as 13-cis retinoic acid and first marketed as Accutane by Hoffmann-La Roche, is an oral pharmaceutical drug used primarily to treat severe nodular acne. Rarely, it is also used to prevent certain skin cancers (squamous cell carcinoma), and to treat other cancers. It is used to treat harlequin-type ichthyosis in Spain, a generally fatal skin disease, and lamellar ichthyosis. It is a retinoid, that is, it is related to vitamin A, and it is found in small amounts naturally in the body. Its isomer, tretinoin, is also an acne drug. Isotretinoin is primarily used as a treatment for severe acne. The most common side effects are transient worsening of acne (lasting 2-3 weeks), dry lips (cheilitis), dry and fragile skin, and increased susceptibility to sunburn. Uncommon and rare side effects include muscle aches and pains (myalgia) and headaches. Isotretinoin is known to cause birth defects due to in utero exposure due to the molecule's close resemblance to retinoic acid, a natural derivative of vitamin A that controls normal embryonic development. In the United States, a special procedure is required to obtain the pharmaceutical product. A consent form explaining these risks is required in most other countries. Women taking isotretinoin should not become pregnant during and for one month after isotretinoin therapy. Sexual abstinence in Spain, or effective contraception is mandatory during this period.Barrier methods by themselves (such as condoms) are not considered adequate due to unacceptable failure rates of approximately 3%. Women who become pregnant during isotretinoin therapy are generally advised to have a termination. Isotretinoin has no effect on male reproduction.