Accutane Medication - Uses & Side Effects

Accutane is a form of vitamin A. So it decreases the amount of sebum (oil) that is released by the sebaceous (oil) glands, and it also increases that rate at which the skin renews itself.

Accutane Dosage

• The usual dose for Accutane is 0.5 to 1 milligram per 2.2 pounds of body weight, divided into 2 doses daily, for 15 to 20 weeks.
• For very severe cases, your doctor may also increase the daily dose to as much as 2 milligrams per 2.2 pounds.

Uses of Accutane

• Accutane is used to treat severe nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments such as antibiotics.
• Isotretinoin is used to treat certain other skin conditions and some types of cancer.

Side Effects of Accutane

Before taken Accutane medicine, you should discuss the side effects with your doctor. If any develop or change in intensity, then you should inform your doctor as soon as possible. Because only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Accutane. Side effects may include:

• Allergic reaction
• Bleeding gums
• Blood in urine
• Bowel inflammation and pain
• Bruising
• Changes in blood sugar or cholesterol levels
• Changes in skin pigmentation
• Chest pain
• Decreased night vision
• Decreased tolerance to contact lenses
• Joint pain
• Liver

Warnings and precautions before taking Accutane

• If you are allergic to isotretinoin, any other medications, parabens (a preservative), or any of the ingredients in isotretinoin capsules, then you should tell your doctor and pharmacist.
• You should also be avoided hair removal by waxing, laser skin treatments, and dermabrasion such as surgical smoothing of the skin while you are taking isotretinoin.
• This drug must not be used during pregnancy. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, then you should inform your doctor immediately.
• Do not take vitamin supplements containing vitamin A during treatment with isotretinoin. This could cause increased side effects.
• Take this medication exactly as it was prescribed for you. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor.

Drug Interaction :-

If you are taking Accutane with certain other drugs, then it may be increased, decreased, or altered the effects of medicine. So it is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Accutane with the others. While taking Accutane, do not take vitamin supplements containing vitamin A. Because accutane and vitamin A are chemically related; taking them together is like taking an overdose of vitamin A. Remember, too, that Accutane should not be combined with tetracycline antibiotics such as including Doryx, Minocin, and Vibramycin.

Overdose

After taken Accutane if you feel that overdose is suspected, then you should contact with your doctor immediately. Because it may lead to another serious effect. Symptoms of a Accutane overdose may include:

• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Dry or cracked lips
• Facial flushing
• Incoordination and clumsiness
• Headache
• Vomiting

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