What is isotretinoin?

The generic name for Accutane is Isotretinoin. Usually, Isotretinoin is being prescribed by doctors for patients who have severe acne. This is being given to patients who do not show reactions to other medications. It is important to understand the side effects of isotretinoin. Whenever you have questions regarding this generic medicine, it is important that you get to talk to your doctor about it. You also need to know about the possible side effects that this may have.

What is the most important information I should know about Accutane (isotretinoin)?

Accutane can cause serious side effects. You should be able to talk to your doctor about the side effects. Most of these side effects already subside after a few weeks. Because some of Accutane’s more serious side effects show up in blood tests, some doctor visits may involve such tests. In the starting period of using Accutane, you will be able to witness how your acne gets worse as you try to begin.

What are some important considerations for women who are taking or considering Accutane (isotretinoin)?

Even when taken for just a short span of time, Accutane can already cause detrimental effects to both the mother and the baby. You must not become pregnant while taking Accutane, or for one month after you stop taking it. Proof of two recent negative pregnancy tests is required prior to your first Accutane prescription. To add to the maintenance of using Accutane, other birth control treatments should also be taken by the mother to ensure desirable results.

What steps need to be followed in taking Accutane (isotretinoin)?

The amount of Accutane you take has been specially chosen for you, and may change during treatment. To make sure that you will be at the right track, you should never share your Accutane to other people and you should never take Accutane prescription that has been prescribed for other people. Accutane should be taken with food, unless your health provider tells you otherwise. If you miss a dose, it should simply be skipped — do not take two doses the next time. The medicine should always be kept away from sunlight, although there is really no requirement that it be kept inside the refrigerator.

What should I avoid while taking Accutane (isotretinoin)?

Women should not get pregnant or breast feed while taking Accutane, and for one month after your treatment ends. Patients who are taking Accutane canot just donate blood because the blood donee might suffer out of it. Vitamin A supplements should not be taken while using Accutane, since in high doses vitamin A has many of the same side effects as Accutane. Cosmetic procedures such as waxing, dermabrasion, or laser procedures should be avoided while using Accutane, and for at least six months after treatment ceases. Aside from the list of prohibitions, the patients should also not be under the direct heat of the sun or ultraviolate rays.

How long should I take Accutane (isotretinoin)?

Most of the time, the prescription for Accutane is givenn for 15-20 weeks. If your condition does not improve over that time, you can usually resume treatment 8 to 10 weeks after your first course is over.

What are symptoms of Accutane (isotretinoin) overdose?

There could be serious consequences when a patient happens to have over-dosage of Accutane. These may include dizziness, flushing, abdominal pain and vomiting. All symptoms are usually resolved without apparent residual effects.

Might I have a legal right to recover for unanticipated negative side effects from Accutane use?

Yes. While all medications have certain, anticipated side effects, a drug manufacturer has a duty to inform physicians adequately regarding the known risks associated with its drugs. The laws on “product liability” can hold the manufacturer of the drug liable for the side effects. This is because the producers of drugs should always make sure that they manufacture drugs that will be for the best health interest.

I’ve been using Accutane for a few months now, and I’m experiencing some medical problems that seem out of the ordinary. What should I do?

Once you encounter some unusual side effects, you should always try contacting your doctor to make sure that you do not encounter some greater downside. In addition, you should contact an attorney experienced in product liability litigation to discuss potential legal claims you might have, which could allow you to recover for the harm Accutane has caused you.