Isotrex gelHow does it work?
Isotrex gel contains the active ingredient isotretinoin. It belongs to a group of medicines known as retinoids, which are derivatives of vitamin A.
It is not known exactly how isotretinoin works when applied to the skin, but it is thought to loosen the cells in the surface of the skin. This helps to unblock pores, so that the skins natural oil producing glands can function normally.
In addition, isotretinoin increases the turnover of the skin cells, which aids the natural exfoliation of the outer layers of skin. This also helps to unblock pores and decrease the formation of blackheads (comedones) and spots.
It may take six to eight weeks before definite beneficial effects on the skin can be seen.
What is it used for?
Mild to moderate acne
Warning!
• This preparation is for external use only.
• Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes, mouth, mucous membranes (eg linings of the nose) and broken areas of skin or areas affected by eczema. Take care to avoid the gel building up in skin creases or the angles of the nose.
• If your skin is sunburnt you should not use this medicine until your skin is fully recovered, as it may potentially cause severe irritation to the skin.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight or sunlamps while using this medicine, as it increases the sensitivity of your skin. If exposure to sunlight cannot be avoided, use protective measures such as sun-creams or protective clothing.
• If you experience severe redness, peeling, or severe irritation of the skin you should apply this medicine less frequently or stop using it temporarily. If the irritation persists you should stop using the medicine completely and consult your doctor.
Use with caution in
• Eczema
• Personal or family history of cancer of the skin or lining of the internal body cavities (cutaneous epithelioma)
• Sensitive areas of skin such as the neck
Not to be used in
• Pregnancy
• Breastfeeding
This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.
• Isotretinoin taken by mouth during pregnancy can have serious adverse effects on a developing foetus. The safety of isotretinoin applied to the skin during pregnancy has not been established. This medicine should not be used by pregnant women. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
• There is no information available about the safety of this medicine during breastfeeding. For this reason, the manufacturer states that it should not be used during breastfeeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
Label warnings
• Follow the printed instructions you have been given with this medication.
Side effects
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
• Local skin reaction, eg stinging, burning, redness, irritation at site of application
• Increased sensitivity of skin to sunlight
• Skin peeling
The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer.For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.
How can this medicine affect other medicines?
The following should be used with caution while you are using Isotrex gel, as they may increase the likelihood of drying or irritating your skin:
• other topical medicines
• medicated or abrasive soaps and cleansers
• soaps and cosmetics with a strong drying effect
• products with high concentrations of alcohol, astringents, lime or spices
• preparations containing sulphur, resorcinol, benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid.
Ask your pharmacist or doctor for further advice.