Utah Esthetics Written State Practice Exam

Which drug is commonly known as isotretinoin?

1. Roche

2. Accutane

3. Retin-A

4. Minocycline

The correct answer is: Accutane

Isotretinoin is most commonly known by the brand name Accutane. It is primarily used to treat severe forms of acne, particularly cystic acne that have not responded well to other treatments. Isotretinoin works by reducing the amount of oil released by oil glands, helping to prevent clogged pores and reduce inflammation. While Roche is a pharmaceutical company that originally marketed Accutane, it is not the name of the drug itself. Retin-A is a brand name for tretinoin, which is a different retinoid used for acne and anti-aging but has a different mechanism and formulation. Minocycline is an oral antibiotic used to treat acne, but it is not a retinoid and does not share the same properties or uses as isotretinoin. Therefore, the association of isotretinoin with the name Accutane is the most accurate and widely recognized representation of this drug in dermatological practice.