Accutane and Bowel Disease
Accepting Accutane Injury Claims Nationwide
In August 2006, the results of a study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology confirmed that the acne drug Accutane (isotretinoin) is linked to increased risk for Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).
What is IBD?
IBD is a group of different conditions associated with inflammation of the intestines. In certain cases, ulcers (tears in the lining of the intestine) can form, causing pain and/or bleeding. IBD includes:
- Crohn's Disease—typically affecting portions of the small and large intestine (the stomach, mouth, and esophagus also may be affected, in some cases)
- Ulcerative Collitis—typically affecting continuous stretches of the lower parts of the large intestine and the rectum
Symptoms of IBD
Symptoms may vary with the particular form of IBD a person has, but generally include:
- Abdominal pain
- Recurring diarrhea
- Rectal bleeding
- Bloody stools
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
- Unexplained fever
- Yellow skin or eyes
- Dark urine
It's not clear what causes IBD, but it can be a chronic, recurring condition that can cause organ damage as it progresses. Treatment of IBD can require surgery to remove portions of the colon and/or intestine in severe cases.
Because of its chronic nature, people with IBD tend to be at risk for depression. IBD also has been associated with a greater risk for colon cancer.
IBD Treatment
In addition to stopping Accutane use, treatment can include:
- Dietary changes
- Stress reduction techniques
- Drugs to reduce inflammation
- Surgery to remove portions of the colon and/or intestine
Treatment will vary with the type of IBD a person is suffering from and disease severity.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
A less severe gastrointestinal illness, IBS is a distinct disease from IBD. Sometimes referred to as “spastic colon” disease, IBS is not associated with organ failure like IBD. However, IBS can be associated with chronic pain and discomfort and can be quite debilitating.
IBS symptoms include abdominal pain that may be:
- Relieved with defecation
- Associated with a change in stool frequency and/or appearance
Individuals with IBS will often experience abdominal bloating and may experience either constipation or diarrhea, depending on the type of IBS they have.
Individuals taking Accutane have reported symptoms of IBS. Because IBS symptoms may resemble the early symptoms of IBD, it’s important for a doctor to perform tests to detect if there’s the inflammation that’s the hallmark of IBD.
If you or your loved one has suffered Accutane side effects such as IBD or IBS, you may be entitled to compensation. The Accutane lawyers at Hagens Berman have the skills and experience to ensure your rights are protected in court.
Please contact our Accutane lawyers today to schedule your free initial consultation. Hagens Berman serves clients nationwide.
