Retinoid (strong vitamin A derivative for skin)
Brand of Isotretinoin
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Isotretinoin is a very strong form of vitamin A that works by shrinking the oil glands in your skin and reducing the amount of oil (sebum) they produce, which helps clear severe acne that other treatments have failed to fix.
Binds to nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR and RXR), regulating gene expression to dramatically reduce sebaceous gland size and sebum production, suppress keratinocyte proliferation, and inhibit inflammation and bacterial colonization in severe acne.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Your doctor will calculate your dose based on your body weight — usually 0.5 to 1 mg per kilogram of body weight per day. For example, a 70 kg person may take 35 to 70 mg daily. Take the capsule with a fatty meal (rice and stew, fried plantain, or any meal with oil) as this helps your body absorb the drug much better. Treatment usually lasts 4 to 6 months. Do not adjust your dose on your own.
If you miss a dose, take it with your next meal as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two capsules at once to make up for it.
This is a strictly prescription-only drug — never buy isotretinoin from roadside vendors or market sellers without a doctor's prescription and monitoring. You will need regular blood tests (liver function and blood fats) during treatment, so keep all your hospital appointments. Your acne may appear to get worse in the first few weeks before it gets better — this is normal, do not stop taking it without talking to your doctor. In Nigeria, you may find it sold as Cosmin Gel or imported brands — always buy from a registered pharmacy.
Do not take vitamin A supplements or multivitamins containing vitamin A while on isotretinoin — too much vitamin A can be dangerous. Avoid tetracycline antibiotics like doxycycline as the combination can cause dangerous pressure buildup in the brain. Alcohol should be avoided or limited as it can increase liver damage and raise your blood fat levels.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Isotretinoin with your other drugs?
Isotretinoin is extremely dangerous during pregnancy — it causes severe birth defects and miscarriage. Women must use two reliable forms of contraception and have a negative pregnancy test before starting, and must not get pregnant during treatment or for one month after stopping. It is not safe while breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so keep it inside a cupboard or drawer, not near windows. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep well away from children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Genuine packaging for Cosmin Gel
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NAFDAC Number
B4-6074
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