Description
About Isotroin 20 mg Soft Capsules
Isotroin 20 mg is a prescription soft gelatin capsule containing 20 mg of isotretinoin, made by Cipla Limited, used to treat severe nodular, cystic or scarring acne that has not improved with other treatment. Within the Isotroin range it is a widely prescribed strength, since one or two capsules cover the weight-based dose of many patients.
Choosing between Isotroin strengths
| Strength | Typical use |
|---|---|
| 5 mg | Fine adjustments and specialist low-dose plans |
| 10 mg | Starting doses and lighter patients |
| 20 mg | Many standard daily doses, alone or doubled |
| 30 mg | Higher weight-based doses with fewer capsules |
How does it work?
Isotretinoin acts on the sebaceous glands, reducing their size and output, so less oil reaches the skin. It also keeps the pore lining from thickening into plugs, lowers numbers of acne bacteria and reduces inflammation. This combined action is why it is reserved for severe acne and why its benefit often continues after treatment ends.
How to take Isotroin 20 mg
- Take the capsules with food and a glass of water, swallowing them whole.
- Your dermatologist sets the dose, normally 0.5–1 mg/kg daily, once a day or split into two.
- Treatment generally continues for 16–24 weeks.
- Do not stop early or change the dose without advice.
- If you miss a capsule and the next is almost due, skip it and continue at the usual time.
Before, during and after treatment
Before: a consultation covering your acne, mental health and medicines, fasting blood lipids and liver tests, and a pregnancy test where relevant. During: repeat blood tests, usually after the first month, and regular reviews of mood and side effects. After: dryness settles within weeks, and anyone who could conceive has a final pregnancy test about one month after the last capsule.
Pregnancy prevention
Isotretinoin can seriously harm an unborn child even after short exposure. It may only be prescribed to someone who could become pregnant within a pregnancy prevention program (UK Pregnancy Prevention Program or iPLEDGE in the US). Two effective contraceptive methods are usually used from one month before to one month after treatment, and pregnancy tests are carried out every month. Isotroin is not suitable while breastfeeding.
What are the side effects?
Very common effects include dry lips, dry skin, dry eyes and nosebleeds. Muscle aches, joint pain, headache, hair thinning and sun sensitivity can also occur, as can sexual side effects such as reduced libido. Contact your doctor at once about low mood, anxiety or suicidal thoughts, and get urgent care for a severe headache with blurred vision, severe abdominal pain, dark urine, yellow eyes or a severe rash.
Who should not take it?
Do not use Isotroin 20 mg in pregnancy, during breastfeeding, with severe liver disease, very high blood fats or excess vitamin A, or together with tetracyclines or vitamin A supplements. Tell your prescriber if you have a soya or peanut allergy. You cannot give blood during treatment or for one month after, and you should wait six months after the course before waxing, laser treatment or dermabrasion.
Pack sizes
Strips of 10 soft gelatin capsules, sold in packs of 30, 60 or 90, from $47.60. Store below 86°F (30°C) in the original strip, away from light.
Frequently asked questions
Is Isotroin 20 mg the same as Accufine 20 mg?
Both contain 20 mg of isotretinoin; Accufine 20 mg is made by Healing Pharma.
What if I need a smaller increase?
Your doctor can add an Isotroin 10 mg capsule or move you to Isotroin 30 mg.
Where can I see other acne treatments?
Browse the acne category.
This information is general and does not replace advice from your doctor. Isotroin 20 mg is a prescription medicine that requires specialist supervision.