Low-Dose Isotretinoin for Acne Vulgaris

Isotretinoin is indicated for nodular acne or severe acne that is unresponsive to conventional therapies. The usual dose is 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg/day for 20 weeks, or a cumulative dose of 120 mg/kg. As side effects are dose-related, the idea of low-dose isotretinoin therapy for less severe forms of acne is attractive, but little data exist on the safety and efficacy of this strategy. Investigators in Israel conducted a prospective, observational, open-label study of isotretinoin in 638 patients with moderate acne. Patients were divided into two groups. Group 1 contained 495 patients aged 12 to 20 years with …