isotretinoin

noun

iso·​tret·​i·​noin ˌī-sō-ˈtre-tə-ˌnȯin 

: a cis isomer of retinoic acid that is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, inhibits sebaceous gland function and keratinization, and is used in the treatment of severe inflammatory acne but is contraindicated in pregnancy because of its implication as a cause of birth defects

Examples of isotretinoin in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Oral isotretinoin: This is a prescription oral retinoid that can help shrink oil glands that cause Fordyce spots. —Carley Millhone, Health, 19 Oct. 2024

And of course, there’s the closest cure-all for acne, isotretinoin (once sold under the name Accutane), which has a 85% success rate but comes with side effects that—for some people, particularly women—can come at the cost of your mental health and physical well-being. —Ariana Yaptangco, Glamour, 14 Oct. 2024

These gentler solutions include retinol, tretinoin, isotretinoin (also known as Accutane), tazarotene, and adapalene. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 24 July 2024

In some cases, if the acne is really severe, Dr. Kopelman says some women might need to get a dermatologist’s prescription for a course of the medication isotretinoin (also known as Accutane) to treat and prevent adult acne in a more permanent way. —Sandra Rose Salathe, Flow Space, 20 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1979, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

isotretinoin

noun

iso·​tret·​i·​noin ˌī-sō-ˈtret-ə-ˌnȯin 

: a cis isomer of retinoic acid that is a synthetic derivative of vitamin A, that inhibits sebaceous gland function and keratinization, and that is administered in the treatment of severe inflammatory acne but is contraindicated in pregnancy because of its implication as a cause of birth defects

called also 13-cis-retinoic acid, retinoic acid

see accutane