Also known as Roaccutane · Written by the Lyng Pharmacy team, based on NHS and BNF guidance · Updated August 2026
Also sold asRoaccutane
Type of medicineOral retinoid
Available asCapsules
How you get itPrescription only — specialist (dermatology) initiated
Isotretinoin is the most effective treatment for severe acne, and often the only thing that produces lasting clearance. It is prescribed only by or under the supervision of a dermatologist, because it causes severe birth defects and requires close monitoring.
Pregnancy prevention
Isotretinoin causes severe birth defects. Anyone able to become pregnant must follow the Pregnancy Prevention Programme: negative pregnancy tests before, monthly during and five weeks after treatment; highly effective contraception from one month before until one month after; and monthly prescriptions of no more than 30 days, dispensed within seven days of issue.
Do not donate blood during treatment or for a month afterwards.
What to expect
A course usually runs four to six months. Acne commonly gets worse for the first few weeks before improving — that is expected and not a reason to stop.
Take capsules with food containing some fat, which substantially improves absorption.
Almost everyone gets dry lips, dry skin, dry eyes and a dry nose. Use a lip balm constantly, a gentle moisturiser, and lubricating eye drops. Contact lenses often become uncomfortable.
Skin becomes far more sensitive to sun — use high-factor sun protection. Avoid waxing, dermabrasion and laser treatment during the course and for six months afterwards, as skin scars more easily.
Monitoring and what to report
Blood tests check liver function and lipids before and during treatment.
Contact your dermatology team promptly for:
Changes in mood, low mood, anxiety or thoughts of self-harm — report these straight away. If you need to talk to someone now, Samaritans are on 116 123, free, at any hour
Severe headache with nausea, vomiting or visual disturbance
Severe abdominal pain, or bloody diarrhoea
Muscle weakness, or severe joint or muscle pain
Reduced night vision
Do not take tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline alongside isotretinoin, and avoid vitamin A supplements. Keep alcohol low.
Always read the label. This page is general information, not advice for your situation. Doses, warnings and interactions differ between products and between people. Check the leaflet inside your medicine, and ask our pharmacist if anything is unclear — that conversation is free and takes two minutes.
Questions about Isotretinoin?
1 Lyng Lane, West Bromwich B70 7RW · Mon–Fri 8:30am–6pm, Sat 9am–1pm · 0121 500 5756
Does acne get worse before it gets better on isotretinoin?
Commonly, yes — for the first few weeks. It is expected and not a reason to stop.
What contraception is required on isotretinoin?
Highly effective contraception from one month before until one month after treatment, with monthly pregnancy tests, as part of the Pregnancy Prevention Programme.
Should I report mood changes on isotretinoin?
Yes, straight away. Report low mood, anxiety or thoughts of self-harm to your dermatology team without waiting.
Can I have waxing or laser treatment during a course?
No — avoid waxing, dermabrasion and laser during treatment and for six months afterwards, as skin scars more easily.
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