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Isotretinoin capsules treat severe acne when other prescription medicines have not worked. Treatment is usually overseen by a skin specialist.
What should I know about Isotretinoin?
Pregnancy warning: do not take isotretinoin if you are pregnant or might become pregnant. It can cause miscarriage and serious birth defects. Anyone who could become pregnant needs reliable contraception, as well as pregnancy tests, as directed by their specialist. Contraception is needed from at least 1 month before treatment until at least 1 month after stopping, following the specialist’s plan. Do not use it while breastfeeding. Regular check-ups and blood tests are needed.
What are the side effects?
Dry skin, rash, sun irritation, muscle and joint pain, headaches, sore eyes and more frequent infections can occur. Use sunscreen, and avoid sunbeds, waxing, chemical peels and intense exercise.
Who should check first?
Tell the specialist about past depression or mood problems, other medicines and vitamin A supplements. Avoid skincare products with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide.
When should I get help?
Serious mental health effects can occur, including hallucinations and thoughts of suicide. If you have thoughts of harming yourself, seek urgent professional help. If you may act on them or have seriously harmed yourself, call your local emergency services immediately. Seek urgent help for seizures or shortness of breath. Call your local emergency number (000 in Australia) for swelling of the throat or tongue, or trouble breathing.
Doses vary, so follow your prescriber, pharmacist and the medicine label. In Australia, call 000 in an emergency. Outside Australia, use your local emergency number.
Source: NHS: Isotretinoin and NHS: Pregnancy and isotretinoin. General education does not replace individual medical advice. Updated November 2026.
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