What is isotretinoin commonly known as?

Isotretinoin is most commonly known as Accutane, which is important to recognize because it is a brand name that became synonymous with the medication. Accutane was specifically developed for the treatment of severe acne that has not responded to other therapies. Its effectiveness in reducing acne lesions by significantly decreasing oil production in the skin and promoting rapid skin cell turnover has made it widely studied and prescribed.

The other options represent different medications with distinct uses. Retin-A is a brand name for tretinoin, a topical retinoid used for various skin conditions, primarily acne and photoaging. Minoxidil is primarily used as a topical treatment for hair loss rather than acne. Hydroquinone is a skin-lightening agent used to treat hyperpigmentation and is not related to the treatment of acne. Understanding these differences is essential for differentiating isotretinoin from other dermatological treatments.