Description
About Tretiva 30 mg Soft Capsule
Tretiva 30 mg is a prescription soft capsule containing 30 mg of isotretinoin, made by Intas Pharmaceuticals, used for severe acne, including nodular and cystic acne and acne that is causing scars. A single 30 mg capsule covers a common daily dose for adults of around 60 kg on 0.5 mg/kg, or can be paired with other strengths for larger doses.
How does it work?
Isotretinoin belongs to the retinoid family. Taken by mouth, it makes the oil glands smaller and far less active, keeps pores from clogging and reduces inflammation. As oil production falls, the acne bacterium loses its food supply, and deep painful lumps gradually flatten.
How to take it
Swallow the capsule whole with food, as isotretinoin is absorbed much better alongside a meal. Your prescriber sets the dose between about 0.5 and 1 mg/kg a day, sometimes starting lower for the first month, and the usual course lasts 16–24 weeks. Take it at the same time each day and keep going even when your skin looks clear, unless told to stop.
Blood tests and check-ups
- Before starting: fasting blood fats, liver function and, where relevant, a pregnancy test.
- After about a month: blood tests are usually repeated once you reach your full dose.
- During the course: further tests as your doctor judges necessary, plus regular appointments to review skin, mood and side effects.
- Each visit: mention any headaches, vision changes, joint pain or low mood.
Pregnancy prevention is essential
Isotretinoin can cause major birth defects. If pregnancy is possible, you must follow a pregnancy prevention program (the UK Pregnancy Prevention Program or iPLEDGE in the US): usually two methods of contraception, one month before, throughout and one month after treatment, with pregnancy tests before starting, every month and after the final dose. Men taking isotretinoin do not need to prevent pregnancy for this reason, but must never pass capsules to anyone else.
What are the side effects?
Expect cracked lips, dry skin and a dry nose that may bleed. Other common effects include dry or sore eyes, muscle and joint pain, headache and a tendency to sunburn. Rarely, isotretinoin affects mood, the pancreas, the liver or pressure around the brain. Get urgent help for suicidal thoughts or severe depression, a severe headache with nausea and blurred vision, severe tummy pain, or a skin reaction with blisters or peeling.
Who should not take Tretiva 30 mg?
- People who are pregnant, may become pregnant without contraception, or are breastfeeding.
- Anyone with liver failure, very high blood lipids or excess vitamin A.
- Anyone taking tetracycline antibiotics.
- People allergic to isotretinoin, soya or peanut (the capsule oil may contain soya).
Do not donate blood during treatment or within one month of stopping. Avoid waxing, laser treatment and dermabrasion for six months after finishing.
Pack sizes
Packs of 30, 60 or 90 soft capsules in strips of 10, from $75. Store below 86°F (30°C), away from moisture and light.
Frequently asked questions
Will my acne come back?
Many people stay clear long term, though some need a second course later.
Can I use acne creams at the same time?
Usually not, because they add dryness. Ask your doctor before using anything else.
What other strengths are there?
Tretiva 40 mg suits higher doses and Tretiva 20 mg lower ones. Compare them in the acne category.
Information only; it does not replace your specialist’s advice. Tretiva 30 mg is a prescription medicine that needs regular monitoring.
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