Approved by the FDA in 2019, Absorica LD is a newer formulation of isotretinoin designed to treat persistent nodular acne. It provides better absorption properties than both Accutane and regular Absorica.

This guide will help patients understand what makes Absorica LD different from other isotretinoin options. We will cover what Absorica LD is, how it differs from the original Absorica formulation, and important treatment considerations. In particular, we will explain why Absorica LD’s unique formulation helps patients take less isotretinoin while maintaining the same results as other, higher dose alternatives. We will also explain how Honeydew helps patients get and manage their acne treatment 100% online, providing access to expert care from the comfort of home.

What is Absorica LD?

Absorica LD's generic name is isotretinoin (oral). The active ingredient, isotretinoin, is a derivative of vitamin A that is highly effective for treating acne. What makes Absorica LD unique is its formulation, which features micronized technology. This innovation physically reduces the size of the isotretinoin molecule, resulting in twice the absorption levels of Absorica under fasting conditions. This enhanced absorption allows Absorica LD to achieve comparable therapeutic plasma levels to Absorica while requiring a lower milligram dose.

This technological innovation has enhanced the bioavailability of isotretinoin without depending on dietary factors, a significant change from previous formulations. The expert providers at Honeydew can prescribe Absorica LD when it is the appropriate choice for a patient's specific needs and lifestyle.

Why is micronization a key advantage? Well, it means that patients no longer need to focus on taking their medication with a high-fat meal to ensure proper absorption. Micronization fundamentally improves isotretinoin absorption levels.

Better absorption means that you as a patient can take a lower dose of Absorica LD and achieve the same results as taking a higher dose. Moreover, taking Absorica over Accutane means that you need to pay less attention to eating fatty foods when taking the medication.

Absorica vs Absorica LD: Key Differences

The original Absorica, which came to market in 2012, features Lidose technology. In contrast, Absorica LD, approved in 2019, uses micronized technology. Absorica's Lidose technology used a lipid encapsulation process that partially pre-solubilized the isotretinoin in a lipid matrix to enhance its absorption. Absorica LD's micronized technology achieves enhanced absorption by physically reducing the size of the isotretinoin particles.

Studies have shown that the absorption of Absorica LD is superior to that of the original Absorica. When taken without food, the absorption of the micronized drug in Absorica LD is doubled compared to the original Absorica. When taken with food, a 32mg dose of Absorica LD is bioequivalent to a 40mg dose of the original Absorica. At Honeydew, our providers stay up-to-date on the latest isotretinoin formulations to provide the most effective acne treatment options available.

Dosing Differences

The improved absorption of Absorica LD allows for a lower dose. The milligram (mg) dosage of micronized Absorica LD is 20% less than that of conventional isotretinoin or the original Absorica with Lidose technology. Even with this lower dose, micronized Absorica LD achieves similar drug levels in the body when taken with food.

This efficiency makes it possible to decrease the total cumulative dose of isotretinoin a patient needs over their treatment course compared to generic isotretinoin. For a patient taking Absorica LD, the target cumulative dose could be decreased by 20% to a range of 100mg/kg–120mg/kg. This can be a significant benefit, potentially reducing the overall exposure to the medication while maintaining high efficacy.

Treatment Considerations

Both Absorica and Accutane contain the same active ingredient, isotretinoin. However, the formulation matters. Absorica is more easily absorbed into the body than some older forms of isotretinoin like Accutane. A key practical difference is that Absorica does not have to be taken with food, offering greater flexibility for patients.

The results of treatment can be significant. Within four weeks of taking Absorica, a more than 33% reduction in the total number of acne lesions was reported in clinical studies. After 20 weeks, over 70% of people with severe nodular acne achieved a 90% reduction in their nodular acne lesions. For many patients, a single 20-week course of treatment has been shown to result in complete and prolonged remission of their acne.

If you are not satisfied with your current treatment, Honeydew offers the most personalized treatments available to maximize results. Our providers provide comprehensive guidance on all treatment considerations. They can manage, adjust, and recommend treatments completely online to ensure you get the results you are looking for. For acne, this includes well-known treatments like Accutane, better-absorbed versions like Absorica, and innovative approaches like low-dose Accutane for those seeking an option with minimal side effects.

Getting Started with Honeydew for Acne Treatment

At Honeydew, we understand that finding the right acne treatment can be challenging, especially when comparing isotretinoin options like Absorica LD with other forms of treatment. Our online dermatology services provide direct access to licensed dermatology providers, including board-certified dermatologists, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants.

We offer all effective topical and oral medications for acne, such as tretinoin, spironolactone, and doxycycline, and we prescribe isotretinoin (Accutane/Absorica) when medically appropriate. With same-day or next-day appointments available, you can start your journey to clearer skin without the wait. A Honeydew provider will work with you to build a comprehensive treatment plan, using proven methods to track your skin's progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Our goal is to make expert dermatological care accessible and affordable. Medications prescribed by Honeydew may be covered by your insurance, and we will help you find the lowest possible costs for your prescriptions. The closest treatment to a cure for acne that we offer is isotretinoin, which leads to long-term remission in 70-80% of patients.

Our expertise extends beyond acne. For other conditions like eczema and psoriasis, we provide cutting-edge biologics like Dupixent and Skyrizi that offer comprehensive relief. We also provide custom compounding of medications to create a treatment that is truly tailored to you.

Conclusion

Absorica LD represents a significant advancement in isotretinoin technology. Its micronized formulation offers key benefits, including superior absorption, the potential for reduced dosing requirements, and greater flexibility with or without food intake. While every patient's experience is unique, isotretinoin treatment is highly effective for many in achieving long-term clear skin.

Working with an experienced provider who understands the nuances of different isotretinoin formulations is crucial for a successful outcome. We encourage you to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if Absorica LD is the right choice for your acne treatment journey.