Accutane Dangers
Isotretinoin is a prescription acne medication available under various brand names, including Accutane. Approved for treating severe nodular acne, Accutane also is prescribed for moderate and mild acne cases. The drug has dangerous side effects, but most are rare.
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Pregnancy Issues
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) requires a black box warning on isotretinoin products, including Accutane, addressing the risk to an unborn baby. Accutane causes severe birth defects that may result in infant death, as well as miscarriages and premature birth.
Serious Mental Problems
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An additional black box warning states that isotretinoin can cause serious mental health problems such as depression, psychosis and suicidal thoughts and behavior.
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Inflammatory Bowel Disease
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Rarely, Accutane has been linked with Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, two forms of inflammatory bowel disease. These permanent disorders cause abdominal pain and severe diarrhea.
Eye Disorders
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Accutane has been associated with dry eyes and reduced night vision, which also may be permanent. Some people have developed cataracts while taking Accutane.
Liver Considerations
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Doctors require regular blood tests for patients being treated with Accutane because of the risk of hepatitis, which can result in permanent liver damage.
Kidney Damage
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In rare instances, patients being treated with Accutane have been diagnosed with rhabdomyolysis, a disorder that causes severe muscle breakdown and kidney damage.
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