Isotretinoin Dose Calculator
Calculate cumulative, daily, and treatment duration for isotretinoin acne therapy based on body weight.
Isotretinoin Therapy Overview
Isotretinoin (Accutane) is an oral retinoid used for severe nodular or treatment-resistant acne. Courses are planned around a cumulative dose per body weight, typically 120 to 150 mg/kg over several months. This calculator estimates cumulative dose, daily dose, and treatment duration from weight and your chosen planning mode. For general dosing math, see the Dosage Calculator.
Cumulative Dose Targets
Dermatology guidelines often aim for roughly 120 to 150 mg/kg total exposure to reduce relapse risk. The mean target of 135 mg/kg is a common planning midpoint. Daily dose is usually started low and may increase toward about 1 mg/kg per day under specialist supervision.
Monitoring and Safety
Isotretinoin requires pregnancy prevention, periodic blood tests for lipids and liver enzymes, and monitoring for mood changes and dryness. Never adjust dose without your dermatologist. This tool supports education only and does not replace prescribed regimens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the target cumulative isotretinoin dose?
Most protocols target 120 to 150 mg/kg total, with 135 mg/kg often used as a midpoint for planning treatment length.
How long does isotretinoin treatment last?
Typical courses run 4 to 6 months depending on daily dose and cumulative target. Duration equals total planned mg divided by daily mg intake.
What is a usual daily isotretinoin dose?
Many patients reach about 0.5 to 1 mg/kg per day, with severe cases sometimes up to 2 mg/kg per day under close monitoring.
Is Accutane the same as isotretinoin?
Yes. Accutane is a brand name for oral isotretinoin. Other brands exist in 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg capsule strengths.
Can I repeat a course if acne returns?
Relapse can occur and retreatment may be considered after an interval, but only a dermatologist should decide based on severity, labs, and prior response.