Early Flare with Isotretinoin

January 30th, 2006

Occasionally, when someone starts isotretinoin, they may experience what is known as a cystic flare. There are a few ways of reducing this.

First, the dose of the isotretinoin can be lowered to less than the “full” dosage. Thi s is commonly done.

A second way is the add in an oral antibiotic to help fight potential inflammation. Perhaps the best antibiotic for this is erythromycin as the tetracycline family (doxycycline and minocycline) should NOT be taken with isotretinoin as there is increased risk for a condition known as pseudotumor cerebri.

Entry Filed under: Acne Treatments