Isotretinoin safety paradoxes: balancing adverse events with clinical needs

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Abstract

Systemic isotretinoin remains a highly effective standard treatment for severe acne, targeting key pathogenetic pathways. However, its use is associated with a wide range of adverse events, creating a safety paradox. This scientific review analyzes currently available data on the potential side effects of systemic isotretinoin therapy.

About the authors

K. B. Olkhovskaya

Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation

Author for correspondence.
Email: olhovskaya_kira@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0003-4920-5288
SPIN-code: 9455-9482

Cand. Sci. (Med.), Associate Professor, Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology

Russian Federation, Moscow

Larisa S. Kruglova

Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation

Email: kruglovals@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0002-5044-5265

Dr. Sci. (Med.), Professor, Head of the Department of Dermatovenereology and Cosmetology, Rector

Russian Federation, Moscow

E. E. Konstantinovskaya

Central State Medical Academy of the Administrative Directorate of the President of the Russian Federation

Email: olhovskaya_kira@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0009-0000-9044-0672
Russian Federation, Moscow

Yulia V. Keniksfest

Ural Research Institute of Dermatovenereology and Immunopathology

Email: keniksfest@mail.ru
ORCID iD: 0000-0001-8431-5664

Dr. Sci. (Med.), Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Chronic Dermatoses for Adults

Russian Federation, Yekaterinburg

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