Alarming Side Effects of Accutane
Accutane® (isotretinoin or roaccutane) is one of the most potent weapons against severe acne that dermatologists prescribe. First introduced by the US drug manufacturer Hoffman-La Roche. But isotretinoin does come with a host of possible side effects. Before starting isotretinoin treatment, be absolutely certain you understand these side effects.
Dryness of the Skin and Mucus Membranes
Because isotretinoin shrinks the sebaceous glands, nearly everyone who takes it will experience dry skin to some degree. Your skin may flake or peel, your lips may get chapped, and your eyes and inside the nose might feel dry.
Miscarriage and Severe Birth Defects
Probably the most widely known side effect of Accutane treatment is the effect it has on a developing fetus. Accutane must never be used while pregnant. Even one dose of the drug while pregnant can cause severe birth defects.
Depression and Suicide
If birth defects are the most well known side effect, depression and suicide are the most publicized. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns Accutane may cause depression, psychosis, thoughts of suicide, and suicide.
High Blood Triglycerides
Before and during your Accutane treatment, your doctor will check your blood triglyceride levels. Triglycerides, which are a type of fat in your blood, can be effected by certain medications including Accutane.
What other side effects are associated with Accutane?
Accutane is one of the top 3 drugs sold in the US with the most reports of adverse side effects. Serious side effects include:
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s Disease, and rectal bleeding
- Clinical hepatitis and liver damage
- Spontaneous osteoporosis and decrease in bone density
- Bone fractures and delayed healing of bone fractures
- Muscle weakness
- Decreased night vision
- Temporary or permanent hearing loss
- Temporary high cholesterol
- Severe allergic reactions
- Miscarriages, birth defects, premature births, and deaths in babies whose mothers took Accutane while pregnant
Less serious side effects include:
- Sensitivity to sunlight
- Headaches
- Chapped lips
- Nose bleeds due to dry nasal passages
- Dry skin and dry eyes
- Temporary thinning of hair
Due to the number of adverse effects directly related to Accutane®, the FDA now requires all patients who take Accutane to sign a consent form. Since 1996, pharmacists are required to give patients a medication guide that details the risks associated with taking Accutane. Thalidomide and Mifeprex are the only other drugs that have required a medication guide.
Have you suffered from adverse reactions to Accutane?
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