Isotretinoin or 13-cis retinoic acid is a very effective medication for the treatment of acne. It is a retinoid; this means it is derived from vitamin-A (retinoic acid). The liver naturally makes small quantities of isotretinoin from vitamin-A, but the drug we prescribe is made synthetically.
Isotretinoin has been available in New Zealand since 1982 and originally received Drug Tariff funding only on the prescription of a Vocationally Registered (Specialist) Dermatologist. Since March 2009, subsidy has been available on Special Authority application by dermatologists and vocationally registered general practitioners. Restrictions apply. In New Zealand, isotretinoin is available as 10 mg and 20 mg capsules, trade name Oratane® (September 2009). In other countries, there are other brands of isotretinoin including Accutane®/Roaccutane® and Isotane®.
Most people receive a course of isotretinoin for 16 to 30 weeks (4 to 7 months), but some require it for longer. In some cases, continued treatment may be prescribed long term, usually in low dose or intermittently. If necessary, it can be prescribed for children as well as adults.
If you are prescribed isotretinoin it is very important you read and understand about the medication. Ask your dermatologist to explain anything you do not understand.
Do not give your medication to anyone else. Do not start the medication if you are pregnant, and do not become pregnant during treatment as this medication may cause major birth defects.
Isotretinoin has been available in New Zealand since 1982 and originally received Drug Tariff funding only on the prescription of a Vocationally Registered (Specialist) Dermatologist. Since March 2009, subsidy has been available on Special Authority application by dermatologists and vocationally registered general practitioners. Restrictions apply. In New Zealand, isotretinoin is available as 10 mg and 20 mg capsules, trade name Oratane® (September 2009). In other countries, there are other brands of isotretinoin including Accutane®/Roaccutane® and Isotane®.
Most people receive a course of isotretinoin for 16 to 30 weeks (4 to 7 months), but some require it for longer. In some cases, continued treatment may be prescribed long term, usually in low dose or intermittently. If necessary, it can be prescribed for children as well as adults.
If you are prescribed isotretinoin it is very important you read and understand about the medication. Ask your dermatologist to explain anything you do not understand.
Do not give your medication to anyone else. Do not start the medication if you are pregnant, and do not become pregnant during treatment as this medication may cause major birth defects.
