Accutane (Isotretinoin)

Description

Accutane is a form of vitamin A. This drug is used as a part of skin treatment to treat various other skin problems including severe acne issues. This medication is highly successful when it is used along with other antibiotic medication.

 

 

 

How It Works

 

This medication works by reducing the level of oil in your oil glands. By decreasing the oiliness in your body, the drug is able to improve your skin condition. Reducing the level of oil in the body enables the skin to renew itself very quickly.

 

Uses

 

This medication is highly useful in treating various types of skin problems. It is specifically used to treat nodular acne. This skin condition cannot be treated by any other treatment methods. This makes Accutane highly valuable to those with this condition. This medication reduces facial oil production to a great extent and thereby reduces the level of acne on your face.

 

Dosage

 

Accutane is usually taken twice on all days of the week. This medication should be swallowed without breaking the capsule. You must not bite or chew the medication. This can expose the drug to your mouth directly. Although the medication can be taken with or without food, it is best to take it with medication to avoid the risk of side effects such as upset stomach. Taking the medication with food can help you to absorb the medication easily into your blood stream.

 

The dosage will be based on your age, medication condition and response to the treatment. You must not increase the dosage in an attempt to accelerate the advantages of the medication. This will only increase the risk of side effects to a severe extent. Thus, make sure to stock to your physician’s prescription at all times.

 

Side Effects

 

The following are some side effects of this medication that you need to be aware about.

 

 Depressed mood
 Troubled concentration
 Blurred vision
 Sudden numbness
 Hearing problems
 Severe pain in the upper stomach
 Loss of appetite
 Joint stiffness
 Severe blistering

 

Although you might not experience all of these symptoms, it is safer to look out for all of them. If you do experience any of the above, contact your physician for immediate help.

 

Precautions

 

The precautions and instructions given below will enable you to reduce the risk of this medication’s adverse health effects.

 

 Supplements that contain vitamin A must be avoided during this period

 

 Do not donate blood during this period

 

 Do not drive after taking your dose. Accutane can result in disturbed concentration and blurry vision

 

 Do not wax or get laser treatments while using this medication. This might lead to scarring

 

 Try to stay indoors since exposure to UV rays can reduce the effectiveness of the medication

 

Self-Care

 

It is best to temporarily stop the consumption of Accutane during the period of pregnancy since this medication can cause impairments to the fetus. Do not get pregnant while using this medication. If you do become unexpectedly pregnant, refer to your physician for instructions.

 

Although it is not known whether the drug can be passed on through breast milk, it is best to avoid this medication when breastfeeding your child.