Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Mechanism of action

From the NCI Drug Dictionary: A naturally-occurring retinoic acid with potential antineoplastic activity. Isotretinoin binds to and activates nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RARs); activated RARs serve as transcription factors that promote cell differentiation and apoptosis. This agent also exhibits immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory responses and inhibits ornithine decarboxylase, thereby decreasing polyamine synthesis and keratinization.

Diseases for which it is used

• Neuroblastoma
• Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma

Patient Drug Information

• Isotretinoin (Accutane) Package Insert

Also known as

• Code name: Ro 4-3780
• Generic names: 13-cis-retinoic acid, 13-cis-vitamin A acid, 13-CRA, cis-retinoic acid, isotretinoinum, neovitamin A
• Brand names: Accure, Accutane, Amnesteem, Cistane, Claravis, Isotrex, Isotrexin, Oratane, Roaccutan, Roaccutane, Roacutan, Sotret