A new article published in the Indian Journal of Drugs in Dermatology discussed that isotretinoin (ISO) –the gold standard drug for nodulocystic acne, was approved in 1982 by the US Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) for this treating condition. In addition, this agent has proven efficacy in several other dermatoses, as well.

The authors informed that for treating acne, there have been numerous modifications in ISO prescription. Although ISO has been indicated primarily for severe nodular and inflammatory acne, this drug also constitutes a highly effective option in the following cases:

• Refractory inflammatory acne – not exhibiting multiple nodules but with high peobability for acne scarring
• Nonnodular acne – in cases where improvement demonstrated is <50% after 6 months of antibiotic treatment, in addition to significant acne scarring; or if there is associated psychological distress.

Adequate evidence suggests the use of ISO in severe forms of acne, especially, severe recalcitrant nodular acne—which has proven refractory to other forms of therapy and renders physical and psychological impact of acne on the patients’ quality of life.

Source: Indian Journal of Drugs in Dermatology. 2020 Jul 1;6(2):59.