Evaluation of Clinical Adverse Effects and Laboratory Changes in Patients with Acne Vulgaris Treated with Oral Isotretinoin

The study assessed the safety of oral isotretinoin in 150 patients with acne vulgaris, aged 15 to 32 years, by monitoring clinical adverse effects and laboratory changes before and during treatment. Cheilitis was the most frequent side effect, affecting 94% of patients, while systemic effects like headaches and hearing problems were rare. Laboratory tests showed minimal, non-significant changes in cholesterol, triglycerides, and liver enzymes. The study concluded that isotretinoin is a safe and well-tolerated medication for acne, with the benefits outweighing the risks, although it highlighted the need for careful monitoring of teratogenic risks and the use of contraception in female patients.