Isotretinoin (Roaccutane, Oratane, Acnetane) is taken in a dose of 1/2 to 1 mg/kg daily to reach a total dose of 120-150mg/kg. For a 60kg individual, 2x20mg daily will take 6 months to complete this dose.

Pretreatment investigations include liver functiion test, cholesterol and triglyceride. This is repeated after one month and at the end of treatment.

Side effects of Roaccutane include dry lips, dry nose, dry eyes, joint pains, liver dysfunction, mood swings, depression and in females, an effect on the foetus if pregnancy occurs. Roaccutane does not cause infertility.

Roaccutane has revolutionised the treatment of acne, resulting in a cure in 70% of individuals taking the medication.