WARNING

Absorica is a powerful medication used to treat severe acne. However, it comes with significant risks. The most serious include:

• Birth Defects: Absorica can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy, so it’s crucial to avoid pregnancy while on this medication and use effective contraception.
• Mental Health Effects: Some people experience mood changes, depression, or suicidal thoughts.
• Liver Issues: It can impact liver function, so regular monitoring is needed.
• Dryness and Irritation: Common side effects include dry skin, lips, and eyes.
• Increased Sensitivity to Sunlight: It can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, raising the risk of sunburn.

Regular check-ups and following your doctor’s instructions can help manage these risks.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Absorica is a brand of isotretinoin, a powerful medication used primarily to treat severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments. It’s effective because it reduces the size and activity of the oil glands in the skin, leading to less acne formation.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Absorica is generally used:

• Dosage: The dose is usually based on your weight and the severity of your acne. It’s typically taken once or twice daily with a meal to enhance absorption.
• Duration: Treatment usually lasts about 15 to 20 weeks, but this can vary depending on individual circumstances.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider are necessary to monitor progress and manage any side effects.
• Precautions: It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully, as isotretinoin can have serious side effects. This includes regular blood tests to monitor liver function and cholesterol levels, and using effective contraception if you are of childbearing age, as isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions regarding dosage and use, and don’t hesitate to ask them if you have any questions or concerns.

Other uses for this medicine

Aside from severe acne, isotretinoin (Absorica) is not commonly used for other conditions. Its use is generally limited to cases of severe acne that haven’t responded to other treatments, like antibiotics or topical medications.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions to follow when using Absorica include:

• Pregnancy Prevention: Isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should not use Absorica. Effective contraception must be used during treatment and for a period after stopping the medication.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests are required to check liver function and cholesterol levels. This is to ensure the medication is not causing adverse effects on your liver or lipid levels.
• Mental Health: Some people experience mood changes or depression while taking isotretinoin. Report any unusual mood swings, depression, or suicidal thoughts to your healthcare provider immediately.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Absorica can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. Use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure or tanning beds.
• Avoid Certain Medications: Some medications can interact with isotretinoin, so inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
• No Blood Donation: You should not donate blood while taking isotretinoin and for a period after stopping the medication, as it could be harmful to pregnant recipients.
• Hydration and Moisturization: Isotretinoin can cause dryness of the skin, lips, and eyes. Keep hydrated and use moisturizers and lip balms to help manage dryness.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines and reach out to them with any concerns or questions regarding your treatment with Absorica.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Take with Food: Absorica should be taken with a meal to improve absorption. Fatty foods can enhance the absorption of isotretinoin.
• Avoid Vitamin A Supplements: Do not take additional vitamin A supplements while on Absorica, as excessive vitamin A can increase the risk of side effects.
• Alcohol Consumption: Limit alcohol intake, as it can exacerbate the risk of liver issues and interact with isotretinoin.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you’re unsure about what to do after missing a dose, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for specific advice tailored to your situation.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Absorica, like other forms of isotretinoin, can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be serious. Common and serious side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Dry Skin: Flaking, peeling, and dryness of the skin.
• Dry Lips: Chapped or cracked lips.
• Dry Eyes: Irritation or discomfort in the eyes.
• Nosebleeds: Due to dryness of the nasal passages.
• Muscle and Joint Pain: Aching or stiffness in muscles or joints.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.

Serious Side Effects:

• Pregnancy-Related Issues: Severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. This is why effective contraception is essential.
• Mental Health Effects: Depression, mood swings, or suicidal thoughts. Immediate medical attention is needed if these symptoms occur.
• Liver Problems: Elevated liver enzymes, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), or liver damage.
• Increased Cholesterol and Triglycerides: Elevated levels that may require monitoring and management.
• Severe Skin Reactions: Rash, peeling, or blistering.
• Vision Changes: Blurred vision or other changes in eyesight.
• Bone Changes: Potential for bone density loss or bone growth issues in adolescents.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Hearing Changes: Ringing in the ears or hearing loss.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain.
• Hair Changes: Temporary hair thinning or loss.

If you experience any severe side effects or symptoms that are unusual for you, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular monitoring and open communication with your healthcare provider are essential to managing side effects and ensuring the safe use of Absorica.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Absorica:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Absorica at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
  • Container: Keep it in its original container and tightly closed.
  • Avoid: Do not store in the bathroom or places with high humidity.
• Disposal:
  • Medication Take-Back Programs: The best way to dispose of unused or expired Absorica is through a medication take-back program or a pharmacy that offers drug disposal services.
  • Household Disposal: If no take-back program is available, you may dispose of Absorica in household trash, but first, mix it with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds) and place it in a sealed plastic bag to prevent leakage.
  • Avoid Flushing: Do not flush Absorica down the toilet or sink unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• • Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, call emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately.
  • Call Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center for guidance on what to do next.
  • Severe Symptoms: High levels of isotretinoin can cause severe side effects such as extreme dryness, liver issues, or severe mood changes.
  • Watch for Signs: Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, severe abdominal pain, or unusual drowsiness.

What other information should I know?

• Patient Education: Make sure you understand how to take Absorica correctly, including dosage and timing. Follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Pregnancy Tests: Regular pregnancy tests are required if you are of childbearing potential to ensure you are not pregnant before starting or continuing treatment.
• Blood Tests: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function and lipid levels.
• Follow-Up Appointments: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor progress and manage any side effects.
• Avoid Unnecessary Procedures: Avoid elective procedures that might be complicated by the side effects of isotretinoin, such as cosmetic skin treatments, without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider of all other medications and supplements you are taking to avoid interactions.

Maintaining good communication with your healthcare provider and adhering to these guidelines will help you manage your treatment with Absorica safely and effectively.