TLDR Adverse reactions to isotretinoin in acne treatment are common and mainly linked to treatment duration.
The study analyzed 120 medical records from 2010 to 2019 to estimate the prevalence of adverse reactions in patients treated with isotretinoin for acne. It found a high prevalence of adverse reactions at 83%, with an average of 2.3 reactions per patient. Xeroderma and dryness of mucous membranes were the most common, affecting 78.3% of patients. Alopecia was significantly more frequent in females, occurring about five times more often than in males. A significant positive correlation was observed between the number of adverse reactions and the duration of treatment, regardless of gender, age, dose, and degree of acne, highlighting the duration of isotretinoin treatment as a key factor in adverse reactions.
58 citations
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November 2018 in “Cochrane library” Oral isotretinoin may slightly improve acne but increases the risk of side effects like dry lips and skin; more research is needed to understand its full risks and benefits.
9 citations
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October 2018 in “Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology” Isotretinoin at a low dose for three months does not significantly affect hair growth.
121 citations
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June 2010 in “Australasian Journal of Dermatology” Most people on isotretinoin had chapped lips, but only a few stopped the medicine due to side effects.
41 citations
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June 2010 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Isotretinoin is safe and effective for acne, with common side effects like dry lips; serious side effects are rare.
41 citations
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June 2010 in “Anais Brasileiros de Dermatologia” Isotretinoin is safe and effective for acne, with common side effects like dry lips; serious side effects are rare.
18 citations
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June 2019 in “Clinical research in dermatology” Acne can't be cured but can be managed with treatments like benzoyl peroxide and diet changes; it's costly and can lead to scarring and mental health issues.
6 citations
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February 2022 in “JAAD International” Higher doses of isotretinoin may lead to more hair loss.
January 2019 in “ARC journal of pharmaceutical sciences” Acne can be managed with various treatments and requires psychological support due to its emotional impact.
6 citations
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September 2012 in “Our Dermatology Online” Retinoids are effective for various skin conditions and hair loss but have serious side effects, so low doses are recommended.
