Isotretinoin Dose & Treatment Duration Calculator

Plan your isotretinoin (Accutane) therapy with precision.

Enter your weight and dosing preferences to calculate your daily dose, cumulative target, and estimated treatment duration. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any medical decisions.

Examples

See how to use the calculator for different scenarios.

Standard Weight-Based Dosing

Standard Weight-Based Dosing

A 70 kg patient, daily dose 0.5 mg/kg, cumulative target 140 mg/kg.

Body Weight: 70 kg

Daily Dose (mg/kg/day): 0.5

Cumulative Target Dose (mg/kg): 140

Fixed Daily Dose

Fixed Daily Dose

A 60 kg patient, fixed daily dose 40 mg, cumulative target 120 mg/kg.

Body Weight: 60 kg

Daily Dose (mg/kg/day): 0.7

Cumulative Target Dose (mg/kg): 120

Custom Daily Dose (mg): 40

Weight in Pounds

Weight in Pounds

A 154 lbs patient, daily dose 1 mg/kg, cumulative target 150 mg/kg.

Body Weight: 154 lbs

Daily Dose (mg/kg/day): 1

Cumulative Target Dose (mg/kg): 150

Estimate End Date

Estimate End Date

A 80 kg patient, daily dose 0.8 mg/kg, cumulative target 130 mg/kg, started on 2024-04-01.

Body Weight: 80 kg

Daily Dose (mg/kg/day): 0.8

Cumulative Target Dose (mg/kg): 130

Start Date: 2024-04-01

Other Titles
Understanding Isotretinoin Dose & Treatment Duration: A Comprehensive Guide
Everything you need to know about safe and effective isotretinoin therapy.

What is Isotretinoin Dose & Treatment Duration?

  • Definition of Isotretinoin Dose
  • Importance of Cumulative Dose
  • Role in Acne Therapy
Isotretinoin is a powerful oral retinoid used for severe acne. Correct dosing is crucial for safety and effectiveness.
Why Dose Calculation Matters
The right cumulative dose reduces relapse risk and side effects. Over- or under-dosing can impact outcomes.

Practical Examples

  • A 70 kg patient with a 140 mg/kg cumulative target will need 9,800 mg total.
  • A 60 kg patient on 40 mg/day will reach 7,200 mg in 180 days.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Calculator

  • Input Your Weight
  • Select Dosing Method
  • Review Results
How to Use the Calculator
Enter your weight in kg or lbs. Choose your daily dose per kg or enter a fixed daily dose. Set your cumulative target dose.
Optionally, enter your treatment start date to estimate your end date.

Step-by-Step Examples

  • Entering 154 lbs will auto-convert to 70 kg.
  • A daily dose of 0.5 mg/kg for 70 kg = 35 mg/day.

Real-World Applications of Isotretinoin Dose Calculation

  • For Dermatologists
  • For Patients
  • For Pharmacists
Dermatologists use this calculator to plan safe, effective therapy and monitor progress.
Patient Empowerment
Patients can track their dose and understand their treatment plan.

Clinical Scenarios

  • A pharmacist checks the total dispensed amount against the cumulative target.
  • A patient estimates when their therapy will end.

Common Misconceptions and Correct Methods

  • Myth: Higher Dose = Faster Results
  • Myth: Cumulative Dose Doesn't Matter
  • Correct: Individualized Dosing
Avoiding Mistakes
Higher daily doses may increase side effects without improving outcomes. Cumulative dose is key for long-term success.
Always individualize dosing based on patient needs and tolerability.

Misconceptions vs. Facts

  • A patient on 2 mg/kg/day may experience more side effects.
  • Stopping early may increase relapse risk.

Mathematical Derivation and Examples

  • Cumulative Dose Formula
  • Daily Dose Calculation
  • Duration Estimation
Key Formulas
Cumulative Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × Cumulative Dose (mg/kg). Daily Dose (mg) = Weight (kg) × Daily Dose (mg/kg/day) or use custom daily dose. Duration = Cumulative Dose / Daily Dose.
If start date is provided, end date = start date + duration.

Mathematical Examples

  • 80 kg × 130 mg/kg = 10,400 mg total.
  • Daily dose 0.8 mg/kg × 80 kg = 64 mg/day.