Accutane

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is a powerful drug used in the treatment of acne. Four to five months of treatment usually leads to clearing of acne for one year or more after the medicine is stopped. Most other acne controlling medicines are antibacterial agents, which are only effective if the medicine is used daily.

Accutane works by altering DNA transcription. This decreases the size and output of sebaceous glands. It also makes the cells that are sloughed off into the sebaceous glands less sticky, and therefore reducing the ability to form blackheads and whiteheads. It also reduces the bacteria counts in the sebaceous gland and on the skins surface.

The most common dosing regimen involves starting with a low dose, then increasing after several weeks. Treatment length varies but is typically for 16 to 20 weeks. Some individuals notice that their acne worsens before improving after beginning Accutane. The lesions may become redder and more painful, but seldom increase in number. This is normal and lasts only a short while and should not be the cause to stop treatment with Accutane.

When the treatment is ended the beneficial effects of Accutane do not end. An improvement of scarring and further reduction of acne lesions is seen for months after treatment is ended. Another beneficial affect of Accutane is that after a course of the drug, the skin usually responds better to conventional acne therapy.

Most important fact about this drug: Because Accutane can cause severe birth defects, including mental retardation and physical malformations; a woman must not become pregnant while taking it. If you accidentally become pregnant while on Accutane, you should immediately consult your doctor.

More common side effects may include: Conjunctivitis (pinkeye), dry or fragile skin, dry or cracked lips, dry mouth, dry nose, itching, joint pains and nosebleeds.

Less common side effects may include: Bowel inflammation and pain, chest pain, decreased night vision, decreased tolerance to contact lenses, delay in wound healing, depression, fatigue, headache, nausea, peeling palms or soles, rash, skin infections, stomach and intestinal discomfort, sunburn-sensitive skin, thinning hair, urinary discomfort, vision problems and vomiting.

Our Thoughts on Accutane at Approved Cures
Although Accutane may offer the necessary power to provide positive results, it also has a great many negative effects that may or may not be present. This medication is not to be taken lightly and you should have the recommendation from a doctor that knows your past medical history before you begin to take this medication.