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isotretinoin
Modality
small molecule
Mechanism
12.1 Mechanism of Action Isotretinoin is a retinoid, which when administered at the recommended dosage [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] , inhibits sebaceous gland function and keratinization. Clinical improvement in nodular acne patients occurs in association with a reduction in sebum secretion. The decrease in sebum secretion is temporary and is related to the dose and duration of treatment with isotretinoin capsules and reflects a reduction in sebaceous gland size and an inhibition of sebaceous gland differentiation. The exact mechanism of action of isotretinoin in the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne is unknown.
Targets
Retinoic acid receptor gamma, Retinoic acid receptor alpha
Storage
—
Approved
acne vulgaris — FDA
In trial
acne vulgaris
Source
Last verified
2026-04-19
lib/moa-data.ts for the shape; add an entry keyed by isotretinoin.