What should you know before taking this medication?

Accutane (generic name isotretinoin) is used for the treatment of severe nodules or cysts where other medications have failed. It is usual for the patient to be monitored by a dermatologist for this purpose. It is a retinoid derived from vitamin A supplied in tablet form. The standard dose is to take the tablet once or twice a day over a period of fifteen to twenty weeks.It works by reducing the amount of oil produced by glands in the skin. This reduction also slows the growth of bacteria in and on the skin. In almost all patients who take this drug, the acne almost always clears up. If the acne does return after the course of treatment has finished, a second course usually removes the problem completely.

As with any strong prescription only drug, there are advantages and disadvantages to use. It is very important that you discuss this with your physician. No matter how effective this drug may be, there are very good reasons why either the drug should not be used at all or only used with the most careful precautions in place.

There are two issues to address before beginning a course of treatment.

1. The use of this drug can cause damage to a fetus. It is therefore of fundamental importance that any woman taking this drug should avoid pregnancy during the course of treatment.

2. The second issue is that some people afflicted with acne become depressed both by their own appearance and the reaction of others to it. There is clinical evidence that changes in mood may be more marked both during the treatment and immediately after completing it. There is some evidence that people taking Accutane have committed suicide but there is, as yet, no scientific evidence to make a causal link and so the FDA has not issued a warning. Nevertheless, it is important that you monitor your own mood if you begin to take this drug. Any increase in feelings of sadness, change in appetite, or loss of interest in everyday activities are signs that you should seek the urgent advice of your local health provider.

Tell your physician if you have any type of allergic reaction to vitamin A or any derivative used as a food preservative or dye. The younger the patient the greater the care that should be taken. Children are significantly more likely to be affected by side effects. This drug should not be used if there are pre-existing bone problems or diseases. The risks may also increase at the other end of the age spectrum and older patients should monitor their reaction most carefully when starting a course of treatment.