Accutane also commonly known as isotretinoin, is a potent retinoid that’s used in the pharmaceutical industry as a prescription only; acne agent. Accutane's efficiency, where other remedies have proven ineffective, is one of its most popular properties. Being a form of vitamin A, Accutane works in multiple ways to clear the skin of acne and prevent any clogging in the pores that might cause acne breakouts in the future. Accutane’s anti-inflammatory properties also make it a huge source of relief for patients suffering physical and physiological discomfort due to persistent acne.
Accutane is highly potent and should only be taken if prescribed by a professional healthcare provider.
Uses of Accutane:
Accutane is primarily used to treat;
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Persistent cystic acne
Accutane has proved to be highly effective in the treatment of severe and persistent acne breakouts.
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Mild forms of acne
In patients with mild acne cases that are not responding to other forms of treatments such as antibiotics, Accutane is highly recommended.
Although Accutane has also been found to be an effective treatment for many other skin conditions in experimental studies, it’s rarely used for their treatment due to the availability of more effective alternatives.
How does Accutane work?
Accutane’s high effectiveness as an acne agent is due to the fact that it works on clearing the skin through several different mechanisms:
- Sebum production: Accutane significantly reduces the amount of oil (sebum) produced by the sebaceous glands hence directly minimizing the chances of the skin’s pores getting clogged.
- Skin Cell Regulation: Accutane regulates cell growth and shedding to prevent the build-up of dead skin cells in the pores.
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Accutane greatly reduces the redness and swelling of acne, significantly reducing any pain and discomfort.
Precautions
Before beginning an Accutane dosage inform your doctor of any allergies or pre-existing medical conditions such as;
- Asthma
- Depression
- Diabetes
- Liver diseases
- Heart diseases
- High Cholesterol
Please also disclose if you’re currently using any other medication or supplements.
Accutane Recommended Dosages
Please note that dosages might vary slightly depending on both the medical condition and the patient's overall health.
Adults
Typically the average dosage prescribed to an adult suffering from Acne is 2 mg/kg/day which is divided into intakes of 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg orally twice a day.
Teenagers (12-18 years)
For teenagers below the age of 18 years a dosage of 2mg /kg per day broken down into doses of 0.25 to 0.5 mg/kg administered orally twice a day is recommended.
Kids
Accutane is strictly not available to children under the age of twelve years.
Although the duration of treatment varies with each condition and the patient’s response to the medication, on average most dosages last up to 5 months.
Strictly adhere to the prescription guidelines given by your healthcare provider.
Missed Dosage & Overdose Instructions.
Overdose
In case you or someone close to you, has accidentally taken too much Accutane, seek medical attention from a professional right away. If the victim is unconscious or an unresponsive Call for emergency response services.
Signs that a person has had an Accutane overdose may include:
- Stomach discomfort
- Swollen lips
- Dizziness
- Nausea
Missed Dosage
In case you forget to take your dosage on time just wait until the next prescribed time and continue with your regular dosage.
Never take extra doses to compensate.
Common Side effects
Accutane users have reported several side effects ranging from mild to extremely severe symptoms. The mild symptoms include;
- Dry lips
- Nose bleeding
- Dry eyes
- Dry skin
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Skin rash
In rare cases some people have reported several other uncommon side effects, lookout and report to your healthcare provider in case you experience any of the following symptoms;
- Headaches
- Liver failure
- Hallucinations
- Muscle/Joint aches
- Severe headaches
- Jaundice
Please note that this list contains less of the side effects associated with the use of Accutane.
As is the case with many other pharmaceutical drugs, people tend to exhibit different side effects, so you are therefore advised to inform your doctor of any unusual changes or discomfort during the dosage period.
Precaution
A single dose of Accutane can cause miscarriage, premature birth or serious birth complications and defects. Accutane is therefore not available to pregnant women or any woman that is looking to have children in the future. It is therefore mandatory for women to take a pregnancy test confirming they are not expectant before they are approved to take this medication.
Accutane is strictly not available to children under the age of 12 years.
Storage Guidelines
Temperature
Accutane should be stored at room temperature of about 68 F to 77 F which translates to 20 C to 25 C.
Environment
Accutane should also be kept away from heat, direct light, and moisture.
Access
Store out of reach of children and pets.