Effects of Isotretinoin on Smell
Effects of Isotretinoin on Nasal Mucociliary Clearance and Olfactory Function
Uşak University
54 participants
Jun 1, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
Isotretinoin is a common medicine used to treat moderate to severe acne. It often causes dryness of the skin and the inside of the nose. Because a normal sense of smell depends on a healthy nasal lining, this dryness may affect how well a person can smell. This study will examine whether isotretinoin treatment changes the sense of smell in adults with acne. Before starting isotretinoin, participants will complete a standardized smell test and two short questionnaires about nasal symptoms and quality of life (NOSE and SNOT-22). After at least 4 weeks of treatment, the same smell test and questionnaires will be repeated. By comparing results before and after treatment, the study will test the hypothesis that isotretinoin has a negative effect on olfactory function and may reduce patients' ability to smell.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria5
- Diagnosed with acne and scheduled to start oral isotretinoin as part of routine dermatology care
- Willing to participate and able to give informed consent
- Not currently smoking
- No history of allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, or active upper respiratory infection
- No medical condition known to affect the sense of smell
Exclusion Criteria5
- Younger than 18 years or older than 45 years
- Current cigarette smoking
- History of chronic sinonasal disease
- Any condition that would prevent completing the smell test
- Not willing to continue participation or withdrawal of consent at any time
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Interventions
Oral isotretinoin prescribed as standard-of-care treatment for acne vulgaris. The dosage, formulation, and duration of therapy will follow routine clinical practice and will be determined by the treating dermatologist based on the participant's clinical condition and body weight. Participants will typically receive daily oral isotretinoin for at least four weeks before the post-treatment assessments.
Locations(1)
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NCT07309341