Patients who initially arrive with severe acne nodules and cysts or who have not responded well to 12 weeks of oral antibiotics should be treated with oral isotretinoin. A dermatologist referral is advised. Oral isotretinoin cannot be prescribed by general practitioners. Referrals could also be required for patients who are at high risk of scarring, have a family history of acne scarring, or are in very bad psychological shape.
Laboratory tests are performed both at the beginning of the Acne Medication and as it progresses. The baseline investigations, which include a fasting cholesterol and triglyceride test, liver function tests, and a pregnancy test for females, may be organised with the support of the referral letter. Blood lipid levels may rise as a result of oral isotretinoin use. The laboratory tests are redone and compared to baseline after the patient has received therapy for 4 to 8 weeks. In contrast, if there are any anomalies, the tests must be performed more frequently, either with or without lowering the daily dose. If the tests are normal, they may be redone at the end of treatment.
