Dosing overview: Isotretinoin is typically dosed at 0.5–1.0 mg/kg/day, targeting a cumulative dose of 120–150 mg/kg over the full course. Lower cumulative totals carry a higher relapse risk; higher totals are associated with better long-term clearance.

Patient Details

Body Weight (lbs)

Biological Sex Female patients require iPLEDGE enrollment in the US

Age (years) Pediatric dosing (<12) requires specialist supervision

Dosing Protocol

Daily Dosing Intensity (mg/kg/day)

Low — 0.5 mg/kg/day Gentle start; used for sensitive skin, initial phase, or low-dose maintenance protocols Standard — 1.0 mg/kg/day Most common protocol; optimal balance of efficacy and side-effect profile High — 1.5 mg/kg/day Used for nodular/cystic acne or truncal disease; higher side-effect risk Custom Enter a specific mg/kg/day target prescribed by your dermatologist

Cumulative Dose Target (mg/kg) Most guidelines recommend 120–150 mg/kg for durable remission

Available Capsule Strengths

Check all strengths your pharmacy carries. The calculator will suggest the simplest combination to reach your daily dose.

10 mg 20 mg 25 mg 30 mg 40 mg

Mid-Course Tracker (optional)

If you are already partway through your course, enter how much isotretinoin you have taken so far to see your progress.

Cumulative Dose Already Taken (mg) Total mg consumed since starting treatment

Treatment Start Date Used to estimate projected end date

Dosage Calculation Results

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💊 Suggested Capsule Combination

Always follow your prescribing dermatologist's exact instructions. Generic combinations are for reference only.

Monthly Dosing Schedule

Month	Daily Dose (mg)	Monthly Total (mg)	Cumulative (mg)	Cumulative (mg/kg)

* Calculations are based on published isotretinoin prescribing guidelines. Individual dosing varies by patient response, tolerability, and physician judgment. Isotretinoin requires monthly monitoring (CBC, LFTs, lipids, pregnancy test) throughout the course.

📋 Isotretinoin Key Facts

MechanismReduces sebaceous gland size and output by ~90%, normalises follicular keratinisation, and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Typical Daily Dose0.5–1.0 mg/kg/day. Starting low (0.5 mg/kg) then titrating up reduces the risk of a severe initial flare.

Cumulative Target120–150 mg/kg total over the course. Studies show relapse rates rise significantly below 120 mg/kg cumulative.

Course DurationTypically 16–24 weeks (4–6 months), depending on daily dose and cumulative target. Do not stop early without medical guidance.

iPLEDGE (US)All patients in the US must be enrolled. Female patients must use two forms of contraception and undergo monthly pregnancy tests.

Common Side EffectsDry lips/skin (nearly universal), nosebleeds, joint aches, elevated triglycerides/LFTs, photosensitivity, mood changes (monitor closely).

Monthly LabsCBC with differential, comprehensive metabolic panel (LFTs), fasting lipid panel, and pregnancy test (if applicable) every 30 days.

Isotretinoin BrandsAccutane (discontinued US), Absorica, Claravis, Amnesteem, Myorisan, Zenatane, Sotret, and many international generics.

Accutane / Isotretinoin Dosage Calculator

Dosage Calculation Results

💊 Suggested Capsule Combination

Monthly Dosing Schedule

📋 Isotretinoin Key Facts