ISOTRETINOIN IN ACNE

Features of oral isotretinoin treatment
• For patients with severe acne
• For patients unresponsive to conventional therapy
• For acne patients experiencing psychological distress
• Extremely effective, as it targets all causes of acne
• Duration of treatment and daily dose are individualised
• Low starting dose is used that may be gradually increased, as
tolerated
• Side effects are usually manageable
• Warn of mood changes and the potential risk of depression
• Warn about contraception and teratogenicity

ISOTRETINOIN IN ACNE

Features of oral isotretinoin treatment
• For patients with severe acne
• For patients unresponsive to conventional therapy
• For acne patients experiencing psychological distress
• Extremely effective, as it targets all causes of acne
• Duration of treatment and daily dose are individualised
• Low starting dose is used that may be gradually increased, as
tolerated
• Side effects are usually manageable
• Warn of mood changes and the potential risk of depression
• Warn about contraception and teratogenicity

ACNE TREATMENT

Tips for antibiotic
therapy

• Do not use topical and
oral antibiotics at the
same time
• Use oral antibiotics for a
6-12-week course
• If a longer course of oral
antibiotics is required, use
benzoyl peroxide for a
week between courses
• Warn of side effects of
antibiotic therapy,
particularly
photosensitivity with
doxycycline

ACNE MANAGEMENT

IMPORTANT POINTS HISTORY AND EXAMINATION


History

• How long have you had
pimples for?
• Are there any triggers?
• Is there a family history?
• What treatments have you
had? How long did you
follow each treatment?
• What was the most
effective treatment? Why
did you stop it?
• How do you feel about
your skin? Does it stop
you from doing anything?

Examination

• Assess the severity and
whether there is any
scarring.
• Determine any
psychological impact.