Isotretinoin is used to treat which condition?

• A. Severe acne
• B. Hypertension
• C. Diabetes
• D. Asthma

Answer: (C)

Isotretinoin is used to treat severe acne, especially nodular or cystic acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments. It’s a powerful systemic retinoid that works by shrinking the sebaceous glands and dramatically reducing sebum production, which lowers follicular clogging and inflammation—the main drivers of severe acne. Because of its potency and teratogenic risk, it’s reserved for cases where benefits outweigh risks and requires strict safety measures: pregnancy must be avoided with reliable contraception, and pregnancy tests are done before and during therapy; liver function and lipid levels should be monitored; mood changes should be watched for; and avoid vitamin A supplements to prevent toxicity. The other conditions listed—hypertension, diabetes, and asthma—do not involve acne biology or respond to isotretinoin.