What is Accutane?

Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a powerful oral medication used to treat the most severe form of acne (nodulo-cystic acne). This severe type of acne is characterized by the appearance of nodules and cysts about the size of pencil erasers or larger. They can be painful and unsightly, and left untreated, can result in permanent scarring. Accutane works by helping the sebaceous gland to "mature." Because side effects are serious, patients must be carefully monitored by a doctor.