Isotretinoin Dose Calculator
Calculate cumulative dose, daily dosage, and treatment duration for Accutane® (isotretinoin) acne therapy
Calculate Isotretinoin Dosage
Weight required for cumulative dose calculation (120-150 mg/kg)
Typical range: 0.5-1 mg/kg/day (up to 2 mg/kg/day for severe cases)
Critical Medical Warning
Isotretinoin is a potent medication with serious side effects including birth defects, liver damage, and depression. This calculator provides guidance only. Always follow your dermatologist's specific dosing instructions and monitoring protocols.
Important Side Effects & Monitoring
Serious Side Effects
• Birth defects: Teratogenic - effective contraception required
• Depression/mood changes: Monitor mental health closely
• Liver damage: Regular liver function tests needed
• Lipid changes: Increased cholesterol and triglycerides
• Pancreatitis: Severe abdominal pain - seek immediate care
Common Side Effects
• Dry skin and lips: Use moisturizers and lip balm
• Dry eyes: Artificial tears may help
• Photosensitivity: Use high SPF sunscreen
• Nosebleeds: Due to nasal dryness
• Joint/muscle pain: Usually mild and manageable
Required Monitoring
Monthly blood tests (CBC, liver enzymes, lipids), pregnancy tests for females, mental health assessment, and dermatologic follow-up throughout treatment.
Treatment Guidelines
Start Low
Begin with 0.5 mg/kg/day
Reduce initial side effects
Standard Dose
Target 1 mg/kg/day
Most effective dosing
Take with Food
Fat-soluble vitamin
Better absorption
Contraindications
Pregnancy or planning pregnancy
Breastfeeding
Liver disease
High triglycerides (>800 mg/dL)
History of depression
Understanding Isotretinoin (Accutane®) Therapy
What is Isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin (brand name Accutane®) is a powerful oral medication derived from vitamin A. It's considered the most effective treatment for severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne. The medication works by targeting all major causes of acne formation.
How Does It Work?
- •Reduces oil production: Shrinks sebaceous glands
- •Prevents clogged pores: Normalizes skin cell turnover
- •Fights bacteria: Reduces P. acnes growth
- •Reduces inflammation: Calms inflammatory response
Dosing Strategy
Cumulative Dose Concept:
- • Target: 120-150 mg/kg total
- • Average: 135 mg/kg over treatment
- • Achieves long-term remission
- • Reduces relapse risk
Treatment Duration: Typically 16-24 weeks (4-6 months), but can vary based on individual response and dosing strategy. Some patients may need longer treatment to reach the target cumulative dose.