TIS-20 Tablet
TIS-20 is an oral tablet that contains isotretinoin, a potent retinoid used primarily to treat severe acne vulgaris, especially cases that do not respond to other treatments like antibiotics and topical therapies. Isotretinoin works by reducing sebaceous (oil) gland activity, which helps to prevent clogged pores and the formation of acne.
- Recommended Usage
Indications
- Severe Acne Vulgaris (particularly cystic or nodular acne)
- Acne unresponsive to other treatments (e.g., topical treatments, antibiotics)
- Other dermatological uses (if prescribed off-label by a healthcare provider)
Dosage and Administration
Route of Administration: Oral tablet.
Typical dose for adults: 20 mg once or twice daily, depending on severity and individual response.
Initial dose for severe cases: Typically, 0.5 mg/kg/day, gradually increasing to a maximum of 1 mg/kg/day, divided into 1 or 2 doses per day.
Duration of treatment: Usually 16-20 weeks. A second course may be considered if acne does not clear completely or relapses after treatment.
Administration: Take with food to increase absorption. Swallow the tablet whole, do not crush or chew it.
Precautions
Teratogenic Effects: Isotretinoin is highly teratogenic (causes birth defects). Strict birth control is necessary for women of reproductive age during treatment and for at least one month after stopping isotretinoin. Pregnancy testing is mandatory before, during, and after treatment.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring of liver function, lipid levels (cholesterol and triglycerides), and mental health status (due to possible mood changes) is required during treatment.
Liver Health: Use with caution in patients with liver disease or elevated liver enzymes.
Psychiatric Effects: Be aware of the risk of depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric symptoms. Patients should be monitored for mood changes, and isotretinoin should be discontinued if significant psychiatric symptoms occur.
Sun Sensitivity: Isotretinoin increases sensitivity to the sun. Patients should avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen regularly.
Skin Dryness: Isotretinoin often causes dryness of the skin, lips, and eyes. Use moisturizers and lip balms to manage these effects.
Contraindications
Pregnancy: Contraindicated in pregnant women due to a high risk of birth defects.
Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to isotretinoin or any of its components.
Severe liver disease or elevated lipid levels.
Depression or psychiatric disorders: Should be avoided in patients with a history of psychiatric disorders such as depression, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts.
Benefits
Effective for Severe Acne: Isotretinoin is highly effective in treating severe, persistent acne that does not respond to other treatments, such as antibiotics or topical therapies.
Reduces Oil Production: It decreases the size and activity of sebaceous glands, which significantly reduces oil production, a key contributor to acne development.
Long-Term Remission: Isotretinoin can lead to long-lasting remission of acne after a full course of treatment.
Prevents Scarring: By clearing up active acne lesions, isotretinoin helps reduce the risk of permanent scarring.
Improves Skin Texture: Along with clearing acne, isotretinoin improves the overall appearance and texture of the skin by reducing inflammation and preventing new lesions from forming.
