Isotretinoin is used therapeutically:
- A- As a urinary analgesic.
- B- In the treatment of cystic acne.
- C- As an antifungal agent.
- D- In the treatment of resistant tuberculosis.
- E- As an osmotic diuretic.
Out of the options you provided, the most accurate answer is: B. In the treatment of cystic acne.
Here's why:
- Isotretinoin:
This is a medication derived from vitamin A, classified as a retinoid.
- Cystic acne:
This is a severe form of acne characterized by deep, painful cysts and nodules.
- Mechanism of action:
Isotretinoin reduces sebum (oil) production, shrinks sebaceous glands, and has anti-inflammatory effects, all of which contribute to its effectiveness in treating cystic acne.
Other Options:
While isotretinoin has other potential uses under investigation, the options you listed are inaccurate:
A. As a urinary analgesic:
Isotretinoin does not have pain-relieving properties in the urinary tract.
C. As an antifungal agent:
It does not have antifungal activity.
D. In the treatment of resistant tuberculosis:
While some early research explored its potential, isotretinoin is not currently used for this purpose due to lack of efficacy and safety concerns.
E. As an osmotic diuretic:
It does not increase urine output through the mechanism of osmotic diuresis.
Therefore, the primary therapeutic use of isotretinoin is in the treatment of cystic acne. It's important to note that due to its potential side effects like birth defects and depression, it's only prescribed under close medical supervision for severe and resistant acne cases.
