Isotretinoin is a prescription only oral retinoid used for severe or scarring acne that has not responded to other treatment. It works by shrinking oil glands and normalising skin cell turnover, and courses run for several months under medical supervision.
In Australia, prescribing traditionally sat with dermatologists, with rules varying by state. It requires blood tests, regular reviews and absolute pregnancy prevention during treatment. A doctor can assess acne severity by telehealth and fast track the appropriate referral and monitoring pathway.