Accutane, a chemical cousin of vitamin A, is prescribed for the treatment of severe, disfiguring cystic acne that has not cleared up in response to milder medications such as antibiotics. It works on the oil glands within the skin, shrinking them and diminishing their output. You take Accutane by mouth every day for several months, then stop. The antiacne effect can last even after you have finished your course of medication.
Because Accutane can cause severe birth defects, including mental retardation and physical malformations, a woman must not become pregnant while taking it. Before starting Accutane therapy, women of childbearing age will be asked to read a pamphlet, watch a video, and sign a detailed consent form regarding the danger of birth defects. You must have two negative pregnancy tests before beginning Accutane therapy, and must take monthly pregnancy tests while using Accutane.
In addition, you must use 2 forms of birth control during Accutane therapy, and for 1 month before and after. Each prescription for Accutane must bear a yellow qualification sticker signifying that you meet these requirements. Scientists have not ruled out the possibility that hormone-based contraceptives may be less reliable when taken with Accutane, so a second form of birth control should always be used while taking Accutane. If you accidentally become pregnant while taking Accutane, you should immediately consult your doctor.
- weight loss;
- weakness;
- vomiting;
- vision problems;
- urinary discomfort;
- tendon and ligament problems;
- swelling due to fluid retention;
- sweating;
- suppression of growth;
- sunburn-sensitive skin;
- sudden drop in blood pressure;
- stroke;
- stomach and intestinal discomfort;
- skin infections;
- rash;
- pinkeye;
- peeling palms or soles;
- nosebleeds;
- nervousness;
- nausea;
- nail disorders;
- muscle wasting;
- menstrual changes;
- liver disorders;
- joint pain;
- itching;
- inflammation or sores in the esophagus;
- herpes;
- heartbeat irregularities;
- hearing problems;
- headache;
- flushing;
- fatigue;
- dry or fragile skin;
- dry or cracked lips;
- dry nose;
- dry mouth;
- drowsiness;
- dizziness;
- difficulty sleeping;
- depression;
- delay in wound healing;
- decreased tolerance to contact lenses;
- decreased night vision;
- chest pain;
- changes in skin pigmentation;
- changes in blood sugar or cholesterol levels;
- bruising;
- bowel inflammation and pain;
- blood in urine;
- bleeding gums;
- allergic reaction;
- abnormal hair growth or loss;
The recommended dosage range for Accutane is 0.5 to 1 mg per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into 2 doses daily, for 15 to 20 weeks. For very severe cases, the doctor may increase the daily dose to as much as 2 mg per 2.2 pounds.
If after a period of 2 months or more off therapy, severe cystic acne persists, your doctor may prescribe a second course of therapy.
