Isofair (isotretinoin) is a retinoid predominantly used to treat severe acne. Less commonly it may be used to treat other serious skin conditions as well as combat some types of cancer.

Acne is a common problem, particularly among younger patients, and its ramifications can be harsh. Isofair is very good at eliminating acne---often permanently---but this product is not without its risks, and is often prescribed only when other acne solutions fail to produce good results. This is particularly true in patients under age 18.

All patients should treat this medication with respect; use it only as directed and remain alert for warning signs that serious side effects are developing.

How Isofair Works

A vitamin A derivative, Isofair combats acne on several fronts. Most notably it:

• Reduces the size of oil glands
• Reduces the amount of sebum produced
• Reduces the bacteria associated with acne by reducing oil production
• Inhibits production of skin cells inside pores, preventing clogging
• Inhibits inflammation
• Inhibits hardening of the skin
• Promotes healing

The medication begins producing noticeable results about 2 to 4 weeks after starting treatment; acne may worsen before that time as lesions below the skin are surfaced. Treatment typically lasts 4 to 5 months, after which most patients enjoy clear, soft, acne-free skin---a condition that is often permanent, though some individuals will have some acne return after several months. Treatment can be repeated if needed in the future.

Isofair for Acne

Isofair comes in capsules, which should be swallowed whole. They should not be allowed to dissolve in the mouth, as this can cause irritation of the mouth and throat. Tablets should always be taken with or following a meal or a full glass of milk.

Dosage can be somewhat difficult to determine, as it depends on a number personal variables including age, weight, other medical conditions, and so forth. Ideally a doctor will determine dosage. Rough guidelines are:

• Standard dose is 0.5 mg to 1 mg per kg of body weight each day, divided into two doses.
• Maximum dose is 2 mg per kg of body weight per day, divided into two doses. A dose this high is relatively rare.
• Treatment should typically not extend past 5 months. If acne is not cleared up by then, it is unlikely continued treatment will help.

Treatment often starts with lower doses, which are rapidly increased for a time. In the latter stages of treatment high doses are often again lowered.

Whatever dosage is decided on Isofair is typically taken twice per day every day, though rarely doctor instructions may deviate a bit.

Missed doses should be skipped entirely; resume treatment with the next dose. The occasional missed dose is not a big deal. Patients with chaotic lives that regularly miss doses may not be ideal candidates for this medication, however.

Other Conditions

Isofair is sometimes used in other conditions, such as:

• Rosacea
• Folliculitis
• Hidradenitis suppurativa
• Palmoplantar keratoderma
• Lamellar ichthyosis
• Some types of skin cancer

With the exception of cancer, other uses are off-label in most areas. There are no official dosage & administration guidelines for them. With respect to cancer, this is a very complicated subject and dosage, administration, and duration of treatment can vary widely between patients.

While Isofair will likely significantly improve the above conditions, patients should keep in mind that use of this product should be reserved for severe cases unresponsive to other medications.

Side Effects

Isofair can produce a range of side effects, from mild to very severe. Most patients---assuming the medication is not misused---will only experience milder side effects. The most common complaint with this product is severe dryness, which can produce:

• Dry nose or nosebleed
• Dry, chapped, or cracked lips
• Dry, cracking, or peeling skin
• Dry mouth or eyes
• Itching
• Brittle or otherwise changed fingernails or toenails

Also relatively common are:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Hair loss

All of the above are not cause for concern unless severe. Some will stop occurring in the first few weeks of treatment as the body adjusts. Dry skin can be alleviated with lotions or other moisturizers.

More serious side effects are relatively rare, but if experienced they call for stopping treatment and seeking medical attention:

• Seizures
• Severe blistering, peeling, or redness of skin
• Unusual bruising or bleeding
• Bone or joint pain
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe mood or behavioral changes
• Severe stomach or bowel problems
• Any other severe symptom

The above really should not ignored. If addressed early they can usually be fully resolved; waiting too long can lead to permanent conditions or, in very rare cases, death.

This product can also interact with a wide range of other medications, including the non-prescription variety. Double-check with a doctor before mixing treatments, or adding a new treatment.

Patients should not donate blood while taking Isofair or for 30 days following the end of treatment.

Isofair is associated with stunted growth if used in teenagers.

Isofair may exacerbate inflammatory bowel disease.

Isofair's active ingredient is most infamous for causing severe physical and mental defects in babies if taken during conception, taken while pregnant, or if a mother takes the medication while breastfeeding. It is present in the semen of men as well as in women, and will remain in the body for up to 30 days after the last dose was taken. Both men and women taking Isofair are advised to use two forms of birth control if intercourse cannot be avoided. If pregnancy does occur parents should seek medical attention immediately. A doctor can help decide the best course of action.