Drug interactions
Isotretinoin + Methyl aminolevulinate
Severity: Moderate
Isotretinoin and Methyl aminolevulinate: moderate interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Methyl aminolevulinate is applied topically with lesion illumination for photodynamic therapy, and isotretinoin can make skin more sensitive to light and irritation. Together they may increase phototoxic reactions and local skin damage in the treated area.
What this interaction means in plain words
Isotretinoin and Methyl aminolevulinate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken.
Why it happens
Additive photosensitization and skin barrier effects of a retinoid with a topical photosensitizer.
What to do
Consider postponing photodynamic therapy until isotretinoin has been stopped for a period, or monitor treated skin closely. Reinforce post-treatment light protection.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Should I take them at different times of day?
- Does the dose of either medicine need to change?
- Is there anything I should avoid, such as alcohol or certain foods, while on both?
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Other interactions of Isotretinoin
- Demeclocycline + Isotretinoin Contraindicated
- Isotretinoin + Minocycline Contraindicated
- Isotretinoin + Oxytetracycline Contraindicated
- Isotretinoin + Palovarotene Contraindicated
- Aminolevulinic acid + Isotretinoin Major
- Doxycycline + Isotretinoin Major
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Isotretinoin with Methyl aminolevulinate?
MediHelp rates the interaction as moderate. Isotretinoin and Methyl aminolevulinate can affect each other. The combination is often manageable, but it may need a change of dose, a change of timing, or extra checks while both are taken. Methyl aminolevulinate is applied topically with lesion illumination for photodynamic therapy, and isotretinoin can make skin more sensitive to light and irritation. Together they may increase phototoxic reactions and local skin damage in the treated area.
How serious is the interaction between Isotretinoin and Methyl aminolevulinate?
MediHelp rates it moderate, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Consider postponing photodynamic therapy until isotretinoin has been stopped for a period, or monitor treated skin closely. Reinforce post-treatment light protection.
What other medicines interact with Isotretinoin?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Isotretinoin with, for example, Demeclocycline, Minocycline, Oxytetracycline. The full list is on the Isotretinoin page.
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