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oral isotretinoin

Federal University of São Paulo · FDA-approved active Small molecule

oral isotretinoin is a Retinoid Small molecule drug developed by Federal University of São Paulo. It is currently FDA-approved for Severe recalcitrant nodular acne, Acne at high risk of permanent scarring. Also known as: oral retinoid, roaccutane, Acnova, low-dose oral isotretinoin.

Isotretinoin is a potent retinoid that binds to nuclear retinoid receptors to regulate gene expression, reducing sebum production and normalizing epithelial cell differentiation in the skin.

Isotretinoin is a potent retinoid that binds to nuclear retinoid receptors to regulate gene expression, reducing sebum production and normalizing epithelial cell differentiation in the skin. Used for Severe recalcitrant nodular acne, Acne at high risk of permanent scarring.

At a glance

Generic nameoral isotretinoin
Also known asoral retinoid, roaccutane, Acnova, low-dose oral isotretinoin, off label use of oral isotretinoin
SponsorFederal University of São Paulo
Drug classRetinoid
TargetRetinoid acid receptors (RAR), Retinoid X receptors (RXR)
ModalitySmall molecule
Therapeutic areaDermatology
PhaseFDA-approved

Mechanism of action

Isotretinoin is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A that acts as a ligand for retinoid acid receptors (RAR) and retinoid X receptors (RXR) in the nucleus, modulating transcription of genes involved in sebaceous gland function, keratinocyte differentiation, and inflammation. It dramatically reduces sebaceous gland size and sebum production, and has anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative effects on skin cells. These combined effects make it highly effective for severe acne by addressing multiple pathogenic factors.

Approved indications

Common side effects

Key clinical trials

Primary sources

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SourceUsed for
ClinicalTrials.govTrial enrolment, design, endpoints, results

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Frequently asked questions about oral isotretinoin

What is oral isotretinoin?

oral isotretinoin is a Retinoid drug developed by Federal University of São Paulo, indicated for Severe recalcitrant nodular acne, Acne at high risk of permanent scarring.

How does oral isotretinoin work?

Isotretinoin is a potent retinoid that binds to nuclear retinoid receptors to regulate gene expression, reducing sebum production and normalizing epithelial cell differentiation in the skin.

What is oral isotretinoin used for?

oral isotretinoin is indicated for Severe recalcitrant nodular acne, Acne at high risk of permanent scarring.

Who makes oral isotretinoin?

oral isotretinoin is developed and marketed by Federal University of São Paulo (see full Federal University of São Paulo pipeline at /company/federal-university-of-s-o-paulo).

Is oral isotretinoin also known as anything else?

oral isotretinoin is also known as oral retinoid, roaccutane, Acnova, low-dose oral isotretinoin, off label use of oral isotretinoin.

What drug class is oral isotretinoin in?

oral isotretinoin belongs to the Retinoid class. See all Retinoid drugs at /class/retinoid.

What development phase is oral isotretinoin in?

oral isotretinoin is FDA-approved (marketed).

What are the side effects of oral isotretinoin?

Common side effects of oral isotretinoin include Cheilitis (lip inflammation), Dry skin and mucous membranes, Elevated triglycerides, Elevated liver enzymes, Headache, Photosensitivity.

What does oral isotretinoin target?

oral isotretinoin targets Retinoid acid receptors (RAR), Retinoid X receptors (RXR) and is a Retinoid.

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