Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 6, 2026
07:36
Clinical Application of Intense Pulsed Light Therapy and Radio Frequency for Treatment of Ocular Surface Diseases
Published on: July 3, 2025
Isotretinoin and Dry Eye Disease: A Systematic Review
Fredrik Andreas Fineide1,2,3, Sjur Reppe1,4, Panagiota Mantaka5
1Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Current Eye Research
|August 5, 2026
Summary
Isotretinoin treatment can cause dry eye disease (DED) by affecting eyelid meibomian glands. This review found worsening dry eye symptoms and signs in many patients, highlighting the need for patient screening and education.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Dermatology
- Ocular Surface Disease
Background:
- Isotretinoin, a common acne medication, impacts sebaceous glands.
- It can affect meibomian glands in the eyelids, potentially causing dry eye disease (DED).
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review evidence on isotretinoin's effects on ocular surface parameters.
- To assess the association between isotretinoin and dry eye disease (DED).
Main Methods:
- Systematic search of major biomedical databases (MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Cochrane).
- Independent screening of titles, abstracts, and full-text articles by two authors.
Main Results:
- 43 articles included; prospective studies frequently reported worsening dry eye symptoms and signs.
- Meibomian gland structure and function were particularly affected.
- Interventions to mitigate side effects showed some improvement in four of six studies.
Conclusions:
- Dry eye disease is a common, potentially serious isotretinoin side effect.
- Isotretinoin may cause persistent meibomian gland alterations; long-term impact is uncertain.
- Pre-treatment and ongoing screening for DED symptoms are recommended for patients on isotretinoin.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Acne Infection
Acne is a multifactorial skin condition primarily affecting adolescents and young adults, with a global prevalence estimated to exceed 75% in this demographic. The condition is characterized by the formation of comedones (blackheads and whiteheads), papules, pustules, nodules, and, in severe cases, cysts, particularly in areas rich in sebaceous glands such as the face, neck, chest, and back. The pathogenesis involves increased sebum production, follicular hyperkeratinization, colonization by...
01:23Ophthalmic Drug Delivery Systems
Ophthalmic drug delivery faces major limitations due to poor absorption across the corneal membrane. This process is primarily driven by diffusion and is influenced by two main factors: the physicochemical properties of the drug and tear drainage. Most ophthalmic drugs, such as pilocarpine, epinephrine, atropine, and local anesthetics, are weak bases. They are typically formulated at an acidic pH to enhance chemical stability. However, this leads to high ionization, reducing their ability to...
01:27Open Angle Glaucoma: Treatment
In open-angle glaucoma, the iridocorneal angle remains open, but the trabecular meshwork becomes stiff, slowing down the outflow of aqueous humor. This causes a buildup of aqueous humor in the anterior chamber, leading to a sudden increase in intraocular pressure. The treatment for open-angle glaucoma focuses on reducing the elevated intraocular pressure by either decreasing the secretion of aqueous humor or increasing its outflow.
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
Drugs such as carbonic anhydrase inhibitors, α2- and...
01:28Angle Closure Glaucoma: Treatment
Angle-closure glaucoma, or closed-angle glaucoma, is an eye condition where the iris bulges out and blocks the iridocorneal angle, resulting in a buildup of aqueous humor and increased intraocular pressure. Immediate medical attention is necessary due to the sudden onset of symptoms. The treatment for angle-closure glaucoma includes short-term and long-term approaches. Short-term treatment involves using eye drops like pilocarpine to lower intraocular pressure by increasing aqueous humor...