Isotretinoin and Alcohol/Food Interactions

Ask your doctor before using ISOtretinoin together with ethanol (alcohol). Do not drink alcohol while you are taking ISOtretinoin. You may have unpleasant side effects such as fast heartbeats, warmth or redness under your skin, tingly feeling, nausea, and vomiting. Check your food and medicine labels to be sure these products do not contain alcohol. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

retinoids - elevated serum triglycerides

The use of retinoids is associated with elevations in serum triglycerides and cholesterol, and decreases in HDL. In addition to cardiovascular risks, elevation of serum triglycerides to greater than 800 mg/dL has been associated with fatal fulminant pancreatitis. Patients at increased risk for developing hypertriglyceridemia during retinoid therapy include those with diabetes mellitus, obesity, high alcohol consumption, or a family history of these conditions. Blood lipid determinations should be performed prior to initiation of therapy and at 1- to 2- week intervals until the lipid response to the drug is established (usually 4 to 8 weeks). Patients with preexisting hyperlipidemia may require closer monitoring during retinoid therapy, and adjustments made accordingly in their lipid-lowering regimen.

retinoids - elevated serum triglycerides

The use of retinoids is associated with elevations in serum triglycerides and cholesterol, and decreases in HDL. In addition to cardiovascular risks, elevation of serum triglycerides to greater than 800 mg/dL has been associated with fatal fulminant pancreatitis. Patients at increased risk for developing hypertriglyceridemia during retinoid therapy include those with diabetes mellitus, obesity, high alcohol consumption, or a family history of these conditions. Blood lipid determinations should be performed prior to initiation of therapy and at 1- to 2- week intervals until the lipid response to the drug is established (usually 4 to 8 weeks). Patients with preexisting hyperlipidemia may require closer monitoring during retinoid therapy, and adjustments made accordingly in their lipid-lowering regimen.