Pharmacological action

Retinoid for systemic therapy of acne.

Isotretinoin is a stereoisomer of fully trans-retinoic acid (tretinoin).

The exact mechanism of action of Roaccutane has not yet been clarified, but it has been established that the improvement of the clinical picture of severe acne forms is associated with suppression of sebaceous gland activity and histologically confirmed decrease in their size. In addition, the anti-inflammatory effect of isotretinoin on the skin has been proven.

Hyperkeratosis of the cells of the epithelium of the hair bulb and the sebaceous gland leads to corneocytes sloughing into the gland duct and to blockage of the latter with keratin and an excess of sebaceous secretion. This is followed by the formation of a comedon and, in some cases, the attachment of an inflammatory process. Roaccutane suppresses the proliferation of sebocytes and acts on acne, restoring the normal process of cell differentiation. Skin fat is the main substrate for the growth of Propionibacterium acnes, so reducing the formation of sebum suppresses the bacterial colonization of the duct.

Indications

- severe forms of acne (nodular-cystic, conglobate acne or acne with risk of scarring);

- Acne, not amenable to other types of therapy.