What is Accutane

Accutane is a widely-used treatment method for severe acne.  Accutane is usually given after other acne medicines or antibiotics have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

The chemical name for Accutane is Isotretinoin - a retinoid related to vitamin A that reduces the amount of oil released by oil glands in the skin, and helps skin renew itself more quickly.

A scientific study, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology in 2006, established that taking Accutane increases the risk of contracting inflammatory bowel disease.  The published study reviewed all cases of IBD diseases (like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis) that were linked to Accutane and reported to the FDA.  In a five-year period, 85 cases were reported.  In four of the cases it was determined that it was “highly probable” that Accutane was the cause.  In addition, 58 cases a link between Accutane use and IBD was deemed “probable.”  Due to these and other serious side effects, Accutane was taken off the market in 2009.

1. Roaccutane (Hoffman-LaRoche)


2. Amnesteem (Mylan)


3. Claravis (Barr)


4. Claru (PremPharm)


5. Cecutan (Actavis)


6. Isotane (Pacific Pharmaceuticals)


7. Izotek (BlauFarma)


8. Oratane (Genepharm Australasia)


9. Isotret (Liva Healthcare Ltd.)


10. Sotret (Ranbaxy)

1. Isotrex (Stiefel)


2. Isotrexin(Stiefel)

At O’Hanlon, McCollom & Demerath, our products liability attorneys understand that your injuries may be due to a side effect of Accutane.  Our in-depth knowledge and experience make us uniquely well-qualified to handle even the most complex Accutane cases.  If you suspect you have an Accutane injury such as inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, and need to talk to a legal professional, contact us immediately by submitting your information in the red case information box at the top of the page.