Accutane Usage

Accutane is a form of vitamin A used to treat severe acne.  It is usually given after other acne medicines or antibiotics have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.  Accutane was also sold under the trade names of Roaccutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, Claru, Cecutan, Isotane, Izotek, Oratane, Isotret, Sotret, Isotrex, and Isotrexin.

Accutane can be taken orally or applied topically.  Accutane is a potent medication that is very effective for nearly all types of breakout – generally used for moderate to severe acne that has failed other treatments.  Accutane is also used for acne present for many years that has not responded completely to antibiotics.

Studies have shown that high doses of fat-soluble vitamin A (retinoic acid) reduces sebum production levels.  However, such high doses can result in significant side effects, which are related on the drying effects on the oil glands.

Serious side effects include inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.  Symptoms of these IBD-related illnesses include abdominal pain, weight loss, rectal bleeding, severe diarrhea, and bloody stool.

Common side effects include mild acne flares, dryness of skin, lips and mucous membranes, infection of the cuticles, itching, rosacea, skin fragility, skin peeling, rash, flushing, nose bleeds, dry eyes, eye irritation, conjunctivitis, reduced tolerance to contact lenses, raised liver enzymes, permanent thin skin, headaches, temporary or permanent hair thinning, and back pain.

Other side effects include severe acne flares, raised blood glucose level, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, impaired night vision, cataracts, menstrual disturbances, pancreatitis, hepatitis, psychosis, and depression.

If you or someone you know has been taking Accutane and note any of the symptoms above, you should contact your physician immediately.  In addition, you should contact an experienced Accutane lawyer to review the facts of your case, and help determine if you have a claim.  You can receive compensation for your injuries if they are directly caused by using Accutane as prescribed by a doctor.  For a free consultation, submit your information in the red case information box at the top of the page.