Accutane

Isotretinoin

Drug Class and Mechanism of Action

Accutane belongs to retinoid (vitamin A related) group. Accutane works by reducing oiliness of skin and by preventing hardening of skin and making skin smooth and glowing.

Therapeutic Uses of the Product

Accutane is used in treating severe form of acne/pimple that does not respond to routine acne treatment. It is also used in some other skin problems like dryness of skin.

Direction of use

Accutane is taken twice a day orally along with food. Accutane should be swallowed whole; it should not be chewed or sucked. Accutane can be taken with water, milk, fruit juice or any other non alcoholic drink. The normal duration of Accutane course is 15-20 weeks.

The dose of Accutane may require adjustments (dose to be increased or decreased) depending on the response. If treatment response is very fast and very good, Accutane can be withdrawn before the usual 15 – 20 weeks of treatment.

Once the normal course of Accutane (15-20 weeks) is over there should be gap of at least 2 months. Two months gap is given because acne may keep getting better during these 2 months even if you are not on Accutane. After the gap of 2 months if acne does not get better than second, you may require second course of Accutane. If there is no response even after second course, your doctor may recommend a longer "gap period" in between the Accutane courses.

You should not consume alcoholic drinks while on Accutane. Capsule should not be crushed. Accutane should not be shared with anybody as there are serious side effects like birth defects with Accutane.

Dose of Accutane, if Missed

If dose of Accutane is missed it should be taken as soon as remembered. If the missed time is long and nearing the next dose than skip the missed dose and continue as normal schedule. Do not take 2 doses together.

How to Store

Accutane should be stored ideally at 25 degree Centigrade (77 degree F), but can be stored at room temperature for short period of time. Accutane should be stored away from sunlight, moisture, heat and children.

More Information About

Accutane is used when other routine treatment of acne fails. Accutane should be used by the person for whom it is prescribed.

Precautions to be Taken While Taking

Accutane should not be used if there are any of the following conditions:

allergy to Accutane or any of the ingredients
breast feeding mothers
during pregnancy, if you are planning to become pregnant or you become pregnant while taking Accutane

Important safety precautions:

do not consume alcohol while you are on Accutane
do not drive or do risky jobs till you become clear how you react to Accutane
blood donation is not permitted while on Accutane or within 1 month after therapy with Accutane
do not stop Accutane treatment if there is worsening of acne during first phase of treatment
Women of reproductive age should use contraceptive 1 month before treatment, during treatment and 1 month after treatment. Pregnancy test should be done before starting treatment and during therapy on monthly basis
in diabetics Accutane may effect blood sugar levels and the dose of anti diabetic medicines should be adjusted accordingly
if you are planning to go on heavy exercise consult your doctor before starting exercise
Avoid exposure to sun while on Accutane as it increases sensitivity to sun. Use sunscreen or protective clothing before going outdoor
Avoid cosmetic procedures like dermabrasion, waxing or laser procedures while on Accutane or till 6 months after stopping Accutane. Because Accutane may increase scar formation due to the cosmetic procedures
use lip moisturizer to prevent lip cracking during treatment with Accutane

Possible Adverse Effects of Accutane

The following adverse effects may be seen with Accutane therapy:

temporary worsening of acne, abnormal growth of hair, menstrual disturbance, gum bleeding, swelling of gums, paresthesia of skin, headache, dizziness, dryness of mouth and eyes, nose bleeding due to dry nose, lethargy, generalized body weakness, nervousness, insomnia, RTI (respiratory tract infection), itching, reaction to contact lenses, excessive sweating

Medical attention should be sought if any of the following develops:

allergic reaction (skin rash, tightness of chest, difficulty in breathing, swelling of lips, tongue, mouth), headache, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, difficulty in micturition (urination), dark color of urine, excessive thirst and urination, increased intracranial pressure,
chest pain, difficulty in swallowing, muscle weakness, muscle pain, joint pain and back pain, stomach pain, vision change, yellow coloration of skin and eyes, skin infection, speech change
abnormal behavior, suicidal tendency, severe birth defects, sensitivity to sunlight, gland swelling, bruise in legs,

Desease

acne

: Commercial drug accutane

Drugs & Medications