Sotret 20mg Cap

Uses of Sotret 20mg Cap

Isotretinoin belongs to the drug class retinoids. This medication is used to treat severe cystic acne ( nodular acne).
Isotretinoin is preferred medicine for cystic acne if it has not responded to medications like clindamycin, tetracycline or minocycline.

Side Effects of Sotret 20mg Cap

Dryness of mucous membranes, dryness of skin with scaling, fragility, erythema, cheilitis, pruritus, epistaxis, conjunctivitis, dry sore mouth and palmo-plantar exfoliation. Corneal opacities, dry eyes, visual disturbances, skeletal hyperostosis and musculoskeletal symptoms. Elevation of serum triglycerides, LFTs, ESR and blood glucose. Hair thinning, photosensitivity, changes in skin pigmentation, paronychia. GI disturbances, hepatitis. Headache, drowsiness, sweating, mood changes, psychotic symptoms, depression, suicidal tendencies, benign intracranial hypertension, seizures. Vasculitis, hypersensitivity reactions, IBS. Potentially Fatal: Anaphylaxis. Haemorrhagic pancreatitis.

Drug Interactions

Additive toxicity with vitamin A or its derivatives. Decreased efficacy of microdosed progesterone (use 2 forms of contraception). May increase risk of bone loss with phenytoin. May increase risk of osteoporosis with systemic corticosteroids. Reduces plasma levels of carbamazepine. Potentially Fatal: Increased risk of pseudotumor cerebri with tetracyclines.

Contraindications

Pregnancy, lactation.

Mechanism of Action

Isotretinoin is a synthetic retinoid which reduces sebaceous gland size and sebum production. It also regulates cell proliferation and differentiation. Absorption: Low oral bioavailability. Peak plasma concentrations in 1-4 hr (oral). Distribution: Protein-binding: 99.9%, mainly to albumin. Metabolism: Hepatic, via CYP450 isoenzyme pathway. Excretion: Via urine and faeces.

Special Precautions

Preexisting or predisposition to hypertriglyceridaemia (e.g. DM, obesity or increased alcohol intake). Monitor triglyceride levels. Monitor blood lipids and LFTs at wkly or bi-wkly intervals. Monitor blood glucose in known or suspected DM patients. Genetic predisposition for age-related osteoporosis, history of childhood osteoporosis, osteomalacia or other bone metabolism disorders. Anorexia nervosa. History of psychiatric disorder. May impair night vision. Avoid wax epilation and skin resurfacing procedures for at least 6 mth. Avoid prolonged exposure to UV light or sunlight. Discontinue if hearing impairment, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, severe diarrhoea or adverse ocular effects occur. Patient should not donate blood during therapy and for at least 1 mth following drug discontinuation.

How to Use

Take orally with food and water, as directed by your physician.

How to Store

Keep in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture.

Safety Concerns

• Alcohol: Avoid during treatment.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated.
• Liver/Kidney: Use with caution.

Content Disclaimer

This content is for educational purposes only. Please consult your doctor before use.