.
Isotretinoin is a modified vitamin A molecule used to treat severe acne vulgaris.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Vitamin A
Although little is known about how isotretinoin interacts with real vitamin A, the two are
structurally similar and have similar toxicities. Therefore, people taking isotretinoin should
avoid vitamin A supplements at levels higher than typically found in a multivitamin (10,000 IU per day).
Vitamin E
Preliminary research has found that combined administration of isotretinoin and vitamin E
(alpha-tocopherol) substantially reduces the initial toxicity of high-dose isotretinoin
without reducing drug efficacy.1 Additional research is needed to further clarify
this potentially beneficial interaction.
Summary of Interactions for Isotretinoin
| Depletion or interference | None known |
|---|---|
| Adverse interaction | Vitamin A |
| Side effect reduction/prevention | Vitamin E* |
| Supportive interaction | None known |
| Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability | None known |
For the convenience of the reader, the information in the summary is categorized as follows: “Depletion or interference” indicates the drug may deplete or interfere with the absorption or function of the supplement or herb. “Adverse interaction” indicates that the supplement or herb used together with the drug may result in undesirable effects. “Side effect reduction/prevention” indicates the supplement or herb may reduce the likelihood and/or severity of a potential side effect caused by the drug. “Supportive interaction” indicates the supplement or herb may support or aid the function of the drug. “Reduced drug absorption/bioavailability” indicates that the supplement or herb may decrease the absorption and/or activity of the drug in the body. An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific evidence.
References:
1. Dimery IW, Hong WK, Lee JJ, et al. Phase I trial of alpha-tocopherol effects on 13-cis-retinoic acid toxicity. Ann Oncol 1997;8:85–9.
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