Despite their similar names, tretinoin and isotretinoin medications are not interchangeable when it comes to treating acne.
They are used in different ways and for different reasons.
This article discusses the differences and similarities between tretinoin and isotretinoin.
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It also covers how you use them and why your healthcare provider may prescribe them.
No, tretinoin and isotretinoin are different medications used to treat different types and severities of acne.
Isotretinoinis an oral(taken by mouth) medication.
It is also derived from vitamin A, but it is not prescribed for anti-aging purposes.
Isotretinoin is used to treat severe acne, such ascystic acneor acne nodules.
Isotretinoin is indicated for severe acne that does not respond to other acne treatments.
There are some similarities between the two medications.
Both tretinoin and isotretinoin are:
What Are the Differences Between Tretinon and Isotretinon?
Tretinoin is used to treat mild-to-moderate acne along with signs of aging and hyperpigmentation.
It is available by prescription as a gel, cream, or ointment.
Isotretinoin is prescribed for severe acne.
It does not improve signs of aging orhyperpigmentation.
It is available by prescription as a capsule or tablet.
What Is Tretinoin?
Tretionin is used topically, meaning that you put it directly on the skin.
Usually, you apply tretinoin once or twice a day.
While using this medication, it’s important to apply sunscreen to treated skin areas daily.
Can You Use Tretinoin if You Are Pregnant?
Tretinoin has not been studied extensively in people who are pregnant.
Brand Names
Tretinoin is the active ingredient in medications prescribed to treatmild pimplestomoderate acneand blackheads.
Brand-name drugs containing tretinoin include:
What Is Isotretinoin?
It’s most often prescribed forsevere forms of acne.
It may also be prescribed in cases when acne is leaving behind scars.
Isotretinoin is the only treatment capable of putting acne into permanent remission.
It can cause side effects, some of which are potentially serious.
Your healthcare provider will monitor your skin and health during the entire time you’re using isotretinoin.
Isotretinoin can’t be used by people who are pregnant because it causes severe birth defects.
The drug also increases the risk of miscarriage and premature birth.
People taking isotretinoin who can get pregnant must first register with a program callediPledge Program.
The goal of this program is to prevent fetal exposure to isotretinoin.
The requirements include using twomethods of contraceptionor practicing complete abstinence during treatment.
You also agree to have regular blood tests as needed.
Unlike tretinoin (and most acne medications), isotretinoin is only used for a finite length of time.
In fact, most people only need one or two courses in their lifetime.
Until 2009, isotretinoin was available in the United States by the brand nameAccutane.
It’s the closest thing to an actual cure for acne.
In very specific cases, a low dose of isotretinoin may be prescribed long-term.
Tretinoin vs. Isotretinoin: Which Should You Use?
Although they have very similar-looking names, isotretinoin and tretinoin are very different medications.
Since both are available by prescription only, you will need to consult with a dermatologist before choosing one.
If your primary skin concern is aging, a topical tretinoin is ideal for you.
Bring your concerns to your dermatologist.
The provider will help you choose the right strength of tretinoin for your skin.
Your dermatologist will help you decide if either is the right treatment option for you.
Summary
Tretinoin and isotretinoin are both acne treatments derived from vitamin A.
They may have similar names, but they’re prescribed for different reasons and used in different ways.
Tretinoin is a topical medication that’s used to treat mild to moderate acne.
It speeds up the life cycle of skin cells, which helps to keep pores clear.
It may also be used to treat wrinkles and sun damage.
Isotretinoin is an oral medication prescribed for severe acne or cases that may cause scars.
It’s used for a specified amount of time.
In most cases, it keeps your skin clear even after you stop using it.
It can potentially cause serious side effects as well as severe birth defects.
While using it, you’re required to use two forms of birth control.
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