What is the dosage and how should it be used?
Take isotretinoin exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Isotretinoin is a medication taken to treat severe nodular acne that has not been helped by other treatments, including antibiotics. However, isotretinoin can cause serious side effects. Before starting treatment with isotretinoin, discuss with your doctor how bad the acne is, the possible benefits of isotretinoin and the possible side effects. Your doctor will ask you to read and sign a form indicating that you understand the serious risks associated with isotretinoin therapy.
Additionally, you will get no more than a 30-day supply of isotretinoin at a time. Your prescription should have a special yellow self-adhesive sticker attached to it. If your prescription does not have this yellow sticker, call your doctor. Your local pharmacy should not fill the prescription without this sticker.
Take each dose of isotretinoin with a full glass of water. This will help prevent the medication inside the capsule from irritating the lining of the esophagus. For the same reason, do not chew or suck on the capsule.
Furthermore, take isotretinoin twice a day with food or milk to get the best results from this medication, unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Take all of the isotretinoin that has been prescribed to you even if your symptoms start to improve. The acne may seem to get worse at the start of therapy, but should then begin to improve. For the best results, finish all of the medication that has been prescribed.
Importantly, your doctor may suggest taking more than one course of therapy with isotretinoin, should it be required. So too, your doctor may perform blood tests during treatment with isotretinoin to monitor side effects from this medication.
Due to the serious side effects that may occur with the use of this medication, do not share it with anyone else.
Why is this medication prescribed?
What special precautions should I follow?
What should I do if I forget a dose?
What side effects can this medication cause?