Drug Summary

  Drug name:  isotretinoin
  Chemical name:  Isotretinoin
  Formula:  C₂₀H₂₈O₂
  Weight:   300.4351
  CAS no:  4759-48-2
  DrugBank link:  DB00982
  Description:  Isotretinoin is a medication used for the treatment of severe acne. It is sometimes used in prevention of certain skin cancers. It is a retinoid, meaning it derives from vitamin A and is found in small quantities naturally in the body. Isotretinoin binds to and activates nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR), thereby regulating cell proliferation and differentiation. This agent also exhibits immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory responses and inhibits ornithine decarboxylase, thereby decreasing polyamine synthesis and keratinization.
  Indication:  For the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne