A 42-year-old member asked:
How does accutane (isotretinoin) work to treat acne?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. M. Christine Leeanswered
Dermatology 30 years experience
Dries up oil glands: It decreases sebum production from the sebaceous glands which is the primary cause of acne formation. It also has an antimicrobial effect on the bacteria involved with causing acne.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
6.3k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Amy Milleranswered
family Medicine 27 years experience
Accutane and acne: Accutane is basically a very strong and potent form of vitamin a. It reduces oil production by the sebum glands in the skin. The pores do not get clogged up with sticky sebum and dead skin cells and a pimple cannot form. It works well but it is a hard drug to take because of side effects. It can also cause birth defects if taken when a woman is pregnant. It's used when other txs have failed.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.2k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Jan 22, 2023
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