Safe Prescribing of Isotretinoin in Primary Care

Participants:- Dr. Diarmuid Quinlan, GP in Cork; Medical Director of the Irish College of GPs- Dr. John Maher, GP (Host) Summary:Dr. John Maher is joined by Dr. Diarmuid Quinlan to discuss safe prescribing of isotretinoin in primary care, for management of severe acne.Diarmuid, a GP with over two decades of experience in practice and a special interest in Dermatology, has been prescribing isotretinoin in primary care for patients with severe acne, for over a decade.  Diarmuid introduces the forthcoming Irish College of GPs module “Safe Prescribing of Isotretinoin in Primary Care”,  as part of the Irish College of GPs' Dermatology in Practice Certificate, with registration for the module opening on 3 February 2026. Like the other modules in the certificate programme, clinicians may opt to complete the isotretinoin module “standalone”.  The module attracts 4 Accredited CE credits and 0.5 day GMS study leave. Topics discussed in today’s episode include:·      The value and importance of timely isotretinoin prescribing for suitable patient cohorts;·      the four key clinical competencies that underpin safe management of people with acne using isotretinoin, as identified by Diarmuid in a scoping review authored by him, and published in the British Journal of General Practice in September 2025;·      Details of the Irish College of GPs' Dermatology in Practice Certificate - Isotretinoin Module;·      Practice resource considerations for those thinking of prescribing isotretinoin in their practice;·      Recommendations regarding useful dermatology resources for primary care.Links:·      Irish College of GPs Dermatology in Practice Certificate - Isotretinoin Module·      Competencies and clinical guidelines for managing acne with isotretinoin in general practice: a scoping review - BJGP, Sep 2025·      Antibioticprescribing.ie – Acne Section·      Primary Care Dermatology Society Ireland·      Primary Care Surgical Association IrelandDisclaimerThe information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, nor does it replace independent clinical judgment or consultation with a qualified healthcare professional.The views and opinions expressed by hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the Irish College of GPs.Listeners are encouraged to review current clinical guidelines, product labelling, and relevant policies before applying any information discussed in this podcast.This podcast does not establish a doctor–patient relationship. Healthcare professionals should exercise their own professional judgment in evaluating and applying information to specific clinical situations. Patients or members of the public should seek advice from their own qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment. It may not be possible or appropriate in all circumstances to follow the advice/processes suggested in this podcast, for example due to resource availability.While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, medicine is a constantly evolving field, and no guarantee is made regarding the completeness, accuracy, or timeliness of the information presented.By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge and agree that the hosts, guests, producers, affiliated organizations and the Irish College of GPs are not liable for any direct or indirect consequences resulting from the use of the information provided. Subscribe, like and review wherever you get your podcasts.Webpage: https://www.irishcollegeofgps.ie/The-GP-PodcastEmail: [email protected]