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Skin & Hair
Isotretinoin
Isotretinoin · Oral retinoid
An oral retinoid used for severe acne, supplied under strict safety conditions.
- Partner pharmacy
- Personal assistance
- Discreet delivery
- Active ingredientIsotretinoin
- AdministrationOral
Shipping & Delivery
- Normally dispatched within 24 hours of payment confirmation.
- UPS Express · A$25 · Approx. 7–9 business days
- Registered Mail · A$15 · Approx. 14–20 business days
What Isotretinoin is
Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid used for severe forms of acne that have not responded to other treatments. It is prescribed under specialist supervision.
Suitability and dosing are decided by a prescriber on the basis of the approved product information.
Acting on the sebaceous glands
Isotretinoin is a retinoid taken by mouth. It shrinks the sebaceous glands and reduces the production of sebum, normalises the shedding of cells lining the hair follicle and, indirectly, reduces the bacteria and inflammation involved in acne.
Sebaceous glandsSmaller glands, much less sebum.
FolliclesFewer blockages and less inflammation.
Guidelines reserve it for severe acne, or acne that has not responded to other treatments.1
Side effects and warnings
Common and important side effects include:
- Dry skin, lips and eyes, and nosebleeds
- Raised blood lipids and liver enzymes, checked with blood tests
- Muscle and joint pain
- Mood changes, depression and, rarely, suicidal thoughts
ImportantIsotretinoin can seriously harm an unborn baby. It is supplied only under a pregnancy prevention programme and requires careful medical monitoring. Contact your doctor promptly about any change in mood.2 Always read the patient information leaflet.
Product information
Patient information leafletSupplied by the partner pharmacy
Summary of Product CharacteristicsOfficial product information
Common questions
Do I need a prescription?
Isotretinoin is a prescription-only medicine. After your request, the partner pharmacy verifies whether and how supply is possible, for example through an existing prescription or an assessment by an independent doctor where permitted.
Why are blood tests needed?
Isotretinoin can raise blood lipids and liver enzymes. These are checked before and during treatment, as set out in the product information.
What is the pregnancy prevention programme?
A set of measures, including pregnancy tests and effective contraception before, during and after treatment, required for anyone who could become pregnant.
Do I pay when I send a request?
No. Payment is arranged individually with customer service once your request has been reviewed and can proceed.
Sources
- Zaenglein AL, et al. Guidelines of care for the management of acne vulgaris. J Am Acad Dermatol. 2016;74:945–973.
- MHRA. Isotretinoin (Roaccutane): introduction of new safety measures. Drug Safety Update, October 2023.
- Isotretinoin: Summary of Product Characteristics.
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