Common Questions About Accutane
What is Accutane used for?
Accutane is prescribed to treat moderate to severe acne that has not responded to other medications. Accutane includes isotretinoin, a compound related to Vitamin A. Accutane acts by drying up sebum, an oily material made by skin glands. When there's too much sebum, bacteria can grow and the skin can become inflamed, which can lead to acne.
Are there generic forms of Accutane?
Generic formulations are available and sold under the brand names:
- Amnesteem (Mylan)
- Claravis (Barr Pharmaceuticals)
- Decutan (Actavis)
- Isotane (Pacific Pharmaceuticals)
- Sotret (Ranbaxy Pharmaceuticals)
- Oratane (Genepharm Australasia)
- Izotek (Blau Farma)
- Isotrex topical gel (Steifel Laboratories)
What are the side effects associated with Accutane acne treatment?
Accutane acne treatment is associated with both short-term and long-term side effects that can include:
- Dry skin
- Allergic reactions
- Brain swelling
- Birth defects
- Psychological problems (depression, suicide, psychosis)
- Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)
- Crohn's Disease
- Cardiovascular problems
- Liver problems (hepatitis, increased liver enzymes)
- High cholesterol and blood lipids
- Joint and muscle pain
- Lupus
- Hearing and vision damage
- Hair loss
If I take Accutane, will I develop these side effects?
Everyone responds differently to medication and so you may experience none of these side effects or only a few. However, you should be aware of the risk and should talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you experience any of these Accutane side effects, particularly since some of these conditions can be long-lasting.
Should I be worried about becoming pregnant while on Accutane?
Yes. Accutane is associated with a high rate of miscarriage and birth defects that can include:
- Hearing and visual impairment
- Facial deformities
- Mental retardation
- Heart defects
- Brain abnormalities
What's the iPledge Program?
Under the iPledge program, the FDA has imposed strict controls on Accutane prescribing practices. As part of the program, the FDA requires that:
- Individuals (men and women) being prescribed Accutane must register on a web site.
- Woman prescribed Accutane must agree to go on two forms of birth control.
- Women prescribed Accutane must undergo regular pregnancy tests, while on Accutane, and for 1 month before and 1 month after Accutane acne treatment.
Does Accutane cause mental illness?
There seems to be a link between Accutane and risk for developing certain psychological conditions. People taking Accutane acne treatment may experience:
- Depression
- Suicidal thoughts
- Psychosis
There's also a higher incidence of aggression and violent behavior associated with Accutane acne treatment, which may affect men more than women. You should report any changes in your mood to your doctor and if you have a history of mental illness, such as depression, Accutane may not be right for you.
What's the link between Accutane and Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)?
Patients taking Accutane may develop gastrointestinal or bowel ailments, including IBD. A condition characterized by inflammation of the intestine and tearing of the intestinal lining (ulcers), IBD actually includes multiple diseases such as:
If you experience abdominal pain, recurring diarrhea, rectal bleeding and/or bloody stools, you should stop Accutane treatment right away. IBD can be a long-lasting disease that can cause severe organ damage. Some cases may require surgery to remove portions of the colon or intestine.
A less severe type of gastrointestinal illness, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), also has been reported by patients taking Accutane. Though not as serious, IBS can be associated with chronic pain and discomfort.
Can I be compensated for the adverse effects I’ve suffered from because of taking Accutane?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be entitled to compensation for adverse effects suffered from because of Accutane use. However, you should contact an experienced Accutane lawyer as soon as you can.There may be time limits by which you must commence suit. Please contact an experienced Accutane lawyer in your area for more information.