Absorica and Accutane both contain isotretinoin, a medicine used to treat very severe acne, but Absorica is more easily absorbed into your body and, unlike Accutane, does not have to be taken with food. Learn all about Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, and see real Accutane before and after images. Accutane® (Isotretinoin) is a type of retinoid medication that treats severe acne. A healthcare provider may prescribe this medication if other acne medications don’t work. What It Is: Isotretinoin, often known by its brand name Accutane ®, is an oral medication approved for severe, scarring acne that is normally prescribed for 15-20 weeks. Accutane is a medicine taken by mouth to treat the most severe form of acne (nodular acne) that cannot be cleared up by any other acne treatments, including antibiotics. Isotretinoin, also called Accutane, is a powerful treatment for severe acne that doesn't respond to other therapies. It's effective, but it comes with significant side effects and risks, so discuss these with your dermatologist before you decide to use it. What is Accutane? Accutane is a form of vitamin A. It reduces the amount of oil released by oil glands in your skin, and helps your skin renew itself more quickly. Accutane is used to treat severe nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments, including antibiotics. Your skin may be very sensitive to light from the sun and devices that give off similar light, such as sunlamps and tanning beds, while you are taking certain drugs, including isotretinoin. Accutane? · Accutane is used to treat a type of severe acne (nodular acne) that has not been helped by other treatments, including antibiotics. · Because Accutane can cause birth defects. Absorica® and Accutane®: The dose is usually 0.5 to 1 milligram (mg) per kilogram (kg) of body weight per day, taken as 2 divided doses for 15 to 20 weeks. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed.