Isotretinoin

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Also indexed as:

Accutane

Isotretinoin is a modified vitamin A molecule used to treat severe acne vulgaris.

Herbs

Summary of Interactions for Isotretinoin

Depletion or interference	None known
Adverse interaction	Vitamin A
Side effect reduction/prevention	Vitamin E*
Supportive interaction	None known
Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability	None known

An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.

Interactions with Supplements

Vitamin A

Although little is known about how isotretinoin interacts with real vitamin A, the two are structurally similar and have similar toxicities. Therefore, people taking isotretinoin should avoid vitamin A supplements at levels higher than typically found in a multivitamin (10,000 IU per day).

Vitamin E

Preliminary research has found that combined administration of isotretinoin and vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) substantially reduces the initial toxicity of high-dose isotretinoin without reducing drug efficacy.¹ Additional research is needed to further clarify this potentially beneficial interaction.

References

1. Dimery IW, Hong WK, Lee JJ, et al. Phase I trial of alpha-tocopherol effects on 13-cis-retinoic acid toxicity. Ann Oncol 1997;8:85-9.

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Last Review: 01-21-2009

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The information presented in Aisle7 is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires February 2010.

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