Accutane (isotretinoin) is a vitamin A derivative used to treat severe nodular or cystic acne. It was traditionally given only when other treatments failed, but has grown in popularity because of its effectiveness.

Less frequently it is used to combat other skin conditions and certain types of cancer.

Who Uses Accutane?

Accutane can be used by any adult suffering from severe nodular or cystic acne. Teenagers are sometimes prescribed Accutane if other treatments don't work, but are more prone to certain side effects and require special consideration by a physician.

Where other treatments fail to clear up severe acne, Accutane often succeeds spectacularly. However, this medication does carry some risk. Patients should read the information that comes with the product in entirety before using.

How does it Work?

As Accutane builds up in the system, the size of oil glands and the amount of oil they produce is greatly reduced. The reduction of oil also reduces the amount of bacteria in the skin that cause nodular acne. It also inhibits the production of skin cells inside pores, which helps prevent clogging, and acts as an anti-inflammatory.

How is it Taken?

Accutane comes in capsule or tablet form. Dosage is typically started low and gradually increased. It is not unusual for dosage to be adjusted throughout treatment according to patient response.

It is typically taken twice a day with food and a full glass of liquid. It should not be chewed or otherwise crushed.

A missed dose should be skipped entirely.

Many patients experience a brief worsening of acne right after starting treatment. This is normal and will not last. Most patients see dramatic improvement within 30 days. For many patients the improvement is permanent, even after treatment stops. About 30% of patients experience relapses and may need to repeat treatment periodically.

Ingredients:

Active ingredient: isotretinoin

Inactive ingredients: soybean oil, edetate disodium, hydrogenated vegetable oil, butylated hydroxyanisole, hydrogenated soybean oil flakes, beeswax

Capsules and tablets additionally contain: glycerin, parabens, iron oxide, titanium dioxide, FD&C Red No. 3, FD&C Blue No. 1, FD&C Yellow No. 6, D&C Yellow No. 10

Patients with known hypersensitivity to any of the ingredients in Accutane should not use this medication.

Adverse Effects and warnings:

This product causes severe birth defects and may result in premature birth or death of the infant shortly after birth. Women should be absolutely certain they are not pregnant prior to starting treatment, and not try to become pregnant for at least one month after cessation of treatment. If pregnancy occurs while using Accutane, seek medical attention immediately. As little as one dose of Accutane can cause severe birth defects or miscarriage.

Accutane is present in the semen of men using this product. It is unknown if its presence in semen will harm a fetus during conception or intercourse with a pregnant partner.

The prescribing physician should be made aware of all prescription and non-prescription medications being taken for the duration of treatment to prevent interactions. The physician should also be made aware of any other medical conditions, including a history of mental illness.

Accutane is associated with a range of side effects from mild to severe. Patients are strongly advised to read the literature accompanying this product in entirety prior to use, and to consult a physician with any questions or concerns.

Patients taking Accutane should not donate blood during treatment or for 30 days after stopping treatment.

U.S. Customers:

Because of the potential for severe birth defects, FDA Regulations require U.S. patients to participate in the iPLEDGE program for the duration of treatment with Accutane. Using this product outside of the iPLEDGE program may be in violation and subject to penalties.