Abstract
Objective: to investigate the complications associated with the use of isotretinoin in the treatment of acne vulgaris. Methods: This is an integrative review, with articles published between 2015 and 2024 in Portuguese, English and Spanish and with the content available in full. As a guiding question, the following was used: “What are the complications of using isotretinoin in the treatment of acne vulgaris?” The bibliographic research was carried out in the MedLine, Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Science (LILACS), and Spanish Bibliographic Index in Health Sciences (IBECS) databases during the months of November and December 2024. the Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS): “Acne Vulgaris”, “Isotretinoin” and “Complications” with the Boolean operator “AND”. Results: The 10 publications that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria reveal that there are several complications related to the use of isotretinoin for the treatment of acne vulgaris. Final considerations: Isotretinoin can cause several side effects, including ocular manifestations and musculoskeletal symptoms. The use of this medication has demonstrated a beneficial effect for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and individuals with depressive and anxious symptoms. Additionally, rare side effects such as cardiac and cosmetic complications may occur.
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