What is a common treatment option for managing acne?

Isotretinoin is a common treatment option for managing acne because it addresses severe cases of acne that are unresponsive to other treatments. This medication is a retinoid, which means it is derived from vitamin A and works by significantly reducing sebaceous gland activity, leading to decreased oil production in the skin. It also helps normalize the shedding of skin cells, preventing clogged pores, and has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce redness and swelling associated with severe acne. Furthermore, isotretinoin is particularly effective for nodular acne and acne that causes scarring.

While other options, like metronidazole and clindamycin, are topical and can be effective for mild to moderate acne and inflammatory lesions, they do not have the same impact on oil production and severe cases as isotretinoin does. Oxycodone is an opioid pain medication and does not have any role in acne treatment. Therefore, isotretinoin stands out as a powerful option when other treatments are insufficient, particularly in cases of resistant or nodulocystic acne.