Adult women with acne have a higher risk of elevated triglyceride levels with the use of oral isotretinoin.

There are restrictions associated with the use of isotretinoin because of its effects on the lipid profile. The records of ninety patients treated with this medication were reviewed to identify factors that would predispose patients to these abnormalities. A significant increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels occurred. Patients in whom triglyceride levels increased were more likely to be female, although this difference was not present at baseline. Women with persistent acne may constitute a risk population for these side effects.