Effects of isotretinoin therapy on lipoprotein (a) serum levels

Increases in plasma concentrations of lipids, triglycerides, and liver enzymes have been reported in patients on isotretinoin therapy. Lipoprotein (a). (Lp (a)), a cholesterol-rich plasma lipoprotein, influences the clotting system and is related to premature coronary heart disease and stroke.

Blood (7 mL) was obtained from 30 patients with cystic acne before and 30 days after the initiation of oral isotretinoin (0.5 mg/kg/day).

An increase in liver enzymes and lipids, except high density lipoprotein, was found in our patients at the end of the study. The mean Lp (a) levels (initial value, 25.91 +/- 3.17 mg/dL) were statistically reduced (p < 0.0001) at the end of treatment (14.80 +/- 2.35 mg/dL).

It is suggested that isotretinoin could be used as an Lp (a) lowering agent in the future.