Accutane, also known by the generic name isotretinoin, is a prescription capsule used to treat severe disfiguring acne, according to MayoClinic.com. Isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A that works by reducing oil secretions in the skin and speeding up the skin renewal process. Due to risks of severe birth defects associated with use, physicians typically prescribe Accutane to women capable of bearing children as a last resort, when all other medications have failed.
Severe Acne
Severe acne is characterized by inflammation, cysts, extensive skin damage or scarring and, in some cases, disfigurement, explains the American Academy of Dermatology. Severe acne requires aggressive treatment by a qualified medical professional and may take years to see lasting results. Isotretinoin is effective because it simultaneously treats the underlying causes of acne, including clogged pores, excessive oil production and inflammation. In many cases, only one course of treatment is required to produce long-lasting results, according to the AAD.
Proper Use
Do not take Accutane in higher doses or for a longer duration than prescribed by your physician. Drugs.com explains that Accutane prescriptions must be filled within seven days of the date on the prescription, and you will receive no more than a 30-day supply at a time. Accutane may cause acne to worsen for a short period before producing results. Do not share your prescription with anyone. If you miss a dose, do not take extra medicine to make it up.
Side Effects
Side effects of Accutane include sore lips, dry skin, changes in skin color, peeling on the palms of hands or soles of feet, slower wound healing, hair loss, fatigue and bleeding or swollen gums according to MedlinePlus. Notify your physician if these symptoms persist or worsen over the course of treatment. Serious side effects include blurred vision, vomiting, seizures, difficulty swallowing, trouble breathing, loss of consciousness and rectal bleeding. If you experience any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.
Requirements for Women of Childbearing Age
Women who may become pregnant can only receive Accutane after signing up with a federal program called iPLEDGE, and only from doctors and pharmacists registered with the program, according to MedlinePlus. iPLEDGE requires women to have two negative pregnancy tests before taking isotretinoin and sign a document stating they will use two forms of birth control at all times while taking the medication. In addition, women must take a pregnancy test once a month during treatment and 30 days after taking the last dose.
Additional FDA Warnings
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that patients taking isotretinoin should be closely monitored for signs of depression, drastic mood changes or suicidal thoughts. Patients exhibiting these symptoms should stop taking the medication under the guidance of a medical professional. Ceasing the medication may not be enough to reverse the effects and additional treatment may be required. The FDA also cautions against purchasing Accutane from the Internet without a prescription. Aside from being illegal, purchasing Accutane from an unqualified source can be extremely dangerous.
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