Accutane Acne Treatment
Accutane is a brand name for isotretinoin. Accutane is a prescription medication that is used to treat severe acne. It should only be considered if all other acne treatments have failed. This is because it can cause many side effects, ranging from mild to severe. It also causes birth defects, so women of childbearing age need to be especially careful when taking Accutane. Carefully consider all the risks of taking Accutane before using it.
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Usage
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Accutane is taken orally. Ask your doctor for proper dosage instructions, as the amount will vary among patients, depending on body weight. It's important to carefully follow all of your doctor's directions and the instructions on the label. Do not change your dose without your doctor's approval. Do not allow children to take Accutane, as the risks to minors are unknown. You should not consume alcohol while taking Accutane.
Interactions
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Some medications may interact with Accutane. If you wish to take both medications, your doctor may alter the dosing instructions. Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are currently taking. Drugs that can interact with Acutane include tetracycline, norgestrel, mestranol, minocycline, desogestrel, doxycycline and others.
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Pre-existing Conditions
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It's imperative to inform your doctor of any conditions that you have, even if it seems irrelevant to acne medication. Pre-existing conditions that may affect the use of Accutane include alcoholism, diabetes, high triglyceride levels, weight problems, an eating disorder, kidney disease, any bone disorders or diseases, liver disease, a mental disorder or high levels of vitamin A.
Birth Defects
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Accutane can cause severe birth defects, even if only one dose is taken while pregnant. Women who are able to become pregnant who take Accutane are required to agree in writing to use two forms of birth control. They must also take a pregnancy test both before and after using Accutane, as well as have regular pregnancy tests while using the drug. Additionally, you should take the precaution of not using Accutane while breastfeeding. Because some herbal supplements can lessen the efficacy of birth control, inform your doctor of all dietary supplements you are taking. In addition, do not donate blood while on Accutane or for at least 30 days after you've ceased taking the drug. This is because a pregnant patient may receive the blood.
Other Side Effects
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Discuss all possible side effects with your doctor to weigh the benefits against the risks. Accutane can cause skin redness and irritation. It may also make your acne worse before it improves it; however you should notice improvement within one to two months. Your skin will be more vulnerable to sunburn and irritation from cold weather. Use sunscreen regularly. Accutane may also cause suicidal tendencies and changes in mood or behavior, as well as joint pain and muscle stiffness. Accutane also increases the possibility of scarring if you undergo wax treatments for hair removal or any other skin procedure, such as laser resurfacing. Accutane may also change blood-sugar levels. Other possible side effects include diarrhea, abdominal pain, back pain, gum inflammation, changes in vision, headaches, depression, nausea, jaundice, rectal bleeding, nosebleeds, skin infection, skin rash and eye pain or inflammation. You may also experience an allergic reaction, such as hives or swelling of the facial area. Discontinue use and call your doctor immediately if this occurs.
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