Accutane is some strong stuff! The chemical name is isotretinoin and Accutane is the best known brand name, though there are generic products on the market. It belongs to the family of medicines called retinoids, which are similar to vitamin A. Accutane is the most effective drug on the market for treating severe acne. It is also a controversial drug due to the potential side effects (such as birth defects). People who are considering Accutane treatment must have a thorough examination by a doctor, ongoing blood tests and an analysis of medications currently used.

Accutane Treatment

Because Accutane is a powerful medication, it should only be prescribed for severe acne cases. Patients must have ongoing blood tests and constant monitoring of cholesterol levels, liver enzymes and triglycerides in order to detect any adverse side effects. Doctors must be made aware of any medication and over the counter the remedies used by their patients. Certain over-the-counter acne products do not mix well with Accutane.

Women who are planning a family must not become pregnant during treatment because Accutane is known to cause birth defects. Some doctors order pregnancy tests and prescribe birth control medication. The FDA has instituted the iPledge program for women who decide to undergo treatment.

Accutane is administered in capsule form and is available in doses of .5mg or 1 mg. The maximum daily dose should not exceed 1.5 mg. The average course of treatment is 15 to 20 weeks. If further treatment is required, the patient must wait 10 weeks after the treatment was discontinued.

It will take several weeks before patients experience the full effect of Accutane. In some cases, the skin will temporarily get worse but then there will be a noticeable decrease in acne.

Side Effects of Accutane
- Skin dryness – use moisturizers
- Nosebleeds - apply petroleum jelly inside the nose
- Dry eyes - over the counter moisturizing drops
- Skin sensitive to sunlight – use a sunscreen with a high SPF rating
- Joint stiffness, bone pain – consult your doctor before using any pain relievers

In some cases, there could be more severe side effects. These require immediate medical attention:

- Headaches, nausea and vomiting

- Depression or psychosis

- Night blindness

- Jaundice, hepatitis or abdominal pain

- Diarrhea, rectal bleeding