MedicinePOM

Isotretinoin

A capsule medicine for severe acne when other treatments have not worked.

Clinical information

Common uses

severe acne

Common side effects

dry or itchy skin and rashes
muscle and joint pain
headaches
sore eyes, nose or throat
bruising more easily

Cautions

must not be used in pregnancy — strict contraception required
can affect mood — report depression or self-harm thoughts
avoid strong sun, sunbeds, waxing and skin peels
avoid intense exercise — muscle and kidney problems

Interactions

tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline
vitamin A supplements
other acne skin treatments
some blood thinners (enoxaparin, dalteparin)
alcohol (best avoided — liver problems)

Pregnancy: must not be taken — causes serious harm to the baby

Reference information, not medical advice — always follow your doctor or pharmacist. Source: NHS Medicines A–Z, nhs.uk/medicines/isotretinoin-roaccutane (accessed 2026-08-16)

Approved brands & formulations3

Brand name	Dosage form	Strength	Importer	Category
I Deriva	Capsule	20 mg	authorized medicine importers	POM
Isotretinoin	Capsule	10 mg	—	POM
Isotretinoin	Capsule	20 mg	—	POM