Tretizen 20

What is Tretizen 20 by Zenlabs?

Tretizen 20 is an isotretinoin capsule from Zenlabs. Every capsule holds 20 mg of isotretinoin (Accutane), and a pack contains 10 capsules. The 20 mg strength sits in the middle of the usual range, which makes it a common building block for both standard and reduced-dose courses.

Chemically, isotretinoin is 13-cis-retinoic acid, a close relative of vitamin A. It is an oral retinoid used for acne that does not respond to other treatment. Unlike antibiotics, which mainly lower the number of bacteria, it changes the skin environment that lets acne develop in the first place: oil glands shrink, sebum output falls dramatically, and follicles stop clogging.

What results can be expected?

Isotretinoin works slowly and predictably. The first two to four weeks often bring dry lips and, in some people, a temporary flare of new spots. During the second month the skin becomes noticeably less oily and fewer new lesions appear. By the end of a full course most patients see a dramatic improvement, and a large share remain clear long afterward. The main effects people look for are:

• fewer deep, painful nodules and cysts;
• a lower risk of new acne scars;
• much less shine and grease on the face, back and shoulders;
• control of acne driven by high androgen levels.

How is Tretizen 20 taken?

Dermatologists usually start at around 0.5 mg per kilogram of body weight per day and may increase to 1 mg/kg once the patient tolerates it, often for 16 to 24 weeks. Two 20 mg capsules a day (40 mg) reach the starting range for many adults, while lower-dose schemes use 20 mg every day or every other day for longer. The capsule must be taken with food, preferably a meal with some fat.

A qualified medical professional must agree on the dose and the length of the course and arrange blood tests for liver enzymes, cholesterol and triglycerides before and during treatment.

Side effects to know about

Nearly everyone on isotretinoin notices dryness: chapped lips, dry eyes that make contact lenses uncomfortable, and dry skin and nose. Night vision may get worse, so driving in the dark needs care. The skin becomes fragile and sensitive to the sun; waxing, laser and dermabrasion should wait until months after the course. Muscle soreness and joint pain are common, and intense training can raise muscle enzymes in blood tests.

The most serious risk is to an unborn child: isotretinoin causes severe malformations, so pregnancy must be excluded and prevented. Mood changes and depression have been reported. Severe headache with blurred vision, severe abdominal pain or yellow skin require stopping the drug and seeing a doctor.

Tretizen 20 package

One pack holds 10 capsules of isotretinoin 20 mg, made by Zenlabs. It can be ordered on MaxLabs.co. Other makers and strengths are on the isotretinoin (Accutane) page.