WARNING

Accutane, or isotretinoin, is a powerful medication used to treat severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments. However, it carries several risks:

• Birth Defects: It can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy, so effective contraception is essential for women of childbearing age.
• Mental Health Effects: There have been reports of mood changes, depression, and, in rare cases, suicidal thoughts.
• Skin Issues: It can cause dryness, peeling, and sensitivity, leading to potential skin infections or irritation.
• Liver Function: It may affect liver function, requiring regular blood tests to monitor liver enzymes.
• Cholesterol Levels: It can raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may necessitate monitoring and dietary adjustments.

Because of these risks, it’s important to use isotretinoin under close medical supervision.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Accutane, known generically as isotretinoin, is a powerful medication primarily used to treat severe acne that hasn’t responded to other treatments. It works by reducing the size and activity of the oil glands in the skin, leading to a decrease in acne-causing bacteria and inflammation.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a brief overview of how it’s typically used:

• Dosage: Accutane is usually prescribed in pill form and taken once or twice a day with food. The exact dosage and duration depend on your condition and how you respond to the medication.
• Duration: Treatment usually lasts for about 4 to 6 months. The goal is to achieve long-term remission from acne, although some people may need additional courses.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with your dermatologist are important. They will monitor for side effects and may adjust your dosage as needed.
• Precautions: Accutane can have serious side effects, including birth defects if taken during pregnancy. It’s essential to use effective birth control if you’re sexually active and on Accutane. Your doctor will also monitor your liver function and lipid levels during treatment.
• Side Effects: Common side effects include dry skin, lips, and eyes, as well as potential for increased sensitivity to the sun.

Always follow your dermatologist’s instructions carefully when using Accutane and report any side effects or concerns you may have.

Other uses for this medicine

Accutane (isotretinoin) is primarily known for treating severe acne, but it has other uses as well:

• Other Dermatological Conditions: It can be used to treat other skin conditions like severe rosacea, certain types of skin cancer (like basal cell carcinoma), and some cases of severe keratosis.
• Off-Label Uses: Sometimes, it’s used off-label for conditions such as hidradenitis suppurativa or certain types of cystic acne that don’t respond to other treatments.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Pregnancy Prevention: Accutane is highly teratogenic, meaning it can cause severe birth defects. Effective birth control is crucial for women of childbearing age. Most programs require a negative pregnancy test before starting treatment and monthly tests during treatment.
• Regular Monitoring: Regular blood tests are necessary to monitor liver function, cholesterol levels, and triglycerides. This helps to catch any potential issues early.
• Avoid Sun Exposure: Accutane can make your skin more sensitive to the sun, so it’s important to use sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure.
• Hydration: You may experience dry skin, lips, and eyes, so using moisturizers and lip balms is important to manage these side effects.
• Medication Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications you’re taking, as Accutane can interact with certain drugs.
• Mental Health: Some people experience mood changes or depression while on Accutane. Report any significant mood changes or symptoms of depression to your doctor immediately.

Always follow your dermatologist’s advice and guidelines while on Accutane to manage these precautions effectively.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Limit Vitamin A: Since Accutane is a form of vitamin A, avoid taking additional vitamin A supplements or consuming excessive amounts of foods rich in vitamin A to prevent toxicity.
• Alcohol: It’s advisable to limit alcohol intake, as alcohol can exacerbate potential side effects and strain your liver, which is already being monitored due to Accutane.
• Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support overall health, especially focusing on hydration and foods that can help manage potential side effects like dry skin.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Remembered: If you remember your missed dose on the same day, take it as soon as you can.
• Skip If Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you miss multiple doses or have any concerns about missed doses, contact your healthcare provider for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Accutane (isotretinoin) can cause a range of side effects, some of which can be serious. Common side effects include:

• Dry Skin and Lips: One of the most common effects is severe dryness of the skin and lips. Using moisturizers and lip balms can help manage this.
• Dry Eyes: Accutane can cause dryness in the eyes, which might require the use of artificial tears or eye drops.
• Nosebleeds: Drying of the nasal passages can lead to frequent nosebleeds.
• Skin Sensitivity: Your skin may become more sensitive to sunlight, leading to an increased risk of sunburn. Using sunscreen is important.
• Joint and Muscle Pain: Some people experience aches and pains in their joints and muscles.
• Headaches: Headaches can occur, though they are usually mild.
• Temporary Worsening of Acne: Some people may experience a temporary worsening of acne before it gets better.
• Changes in Mood: Accutane has been associated with mood swings, depression, or other psychological effects. It’s important to report any significant mood changes to your doctor.

Serious Side Effects:

• Birth Defects: Accutane can cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Effective contraception is mandatory for women of childbearing age.
• Liver Damage: Accutane can affect liver function, which is why regular liver function tests are necessary.
• Elevated Lipids: It can cause elevated cholesterol and triglycerides, requiring monitoring.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Rarely, people may experience allergic reactions such as rash, itching, or swelling.
• Severe Gastrointestinal Issues: Some may experience severe abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Vision Changes: In rare cases, Accutane can affect vision, including night vision.

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help manage side effects and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

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

Storage and Disposal of Accutane:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Accutane at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct sunlight.
  • Container: Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
  • Children: Store it out of reach of children.
• Disposal:
  • Medication Take-Back Programs: Dispose of Accutane through a drug take-back program or pharmacy disposal service if available. This helps prevent environmental contamination and misuse.
  • Household Disposal: If no take-back program is available, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance (like coffee grounds or cat litter) in a sealed bag before throwing it in the trash. Do not flush Accutane down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Overdose:
  • Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose might include severe nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, or even severe abdominal pain.
  • Action: If an overdose is suspected, contact emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room immediately. Bring the medication container with you if possible.
• Emergency Contact:
  • Poison Control: You can also call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for advice on handling the situation.

What other information should I know?

• Pregnancy: Be very cautious about pregnancy while taking Accutane. Regular pregnancy tests and effective contraception are mandatory to avoid severe birth defects.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications and supplements you’re taking to avoid interactions.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments and lab tests are crucial to monitor for potential side effects and to ensure the medication is working as intended.
• Mental Health: Be aware of any changes in mood or mental health and report them to your doctor.
• Patient Information Leaflet: Read the patient information leaflet that comes with the medication for detailed information and instructions specific to your brand and dosage.

If you have any more questions or concerns about Accutane, your healthcare provider is the best resource for personalized advice and guidance.