Accutane is a brand name for Isotretinoin, a medicine that is primarily used to treat acute acne. A physician may prescribe this drug if other acne treatments have failed. It's offered only on prescription by certified pharmacies under the iPLEDGE program.
Isotretinoin is also sometimes used for off-label purposes. These include the treatment of certain skin conditions, including ichthyosis. Moreover, the drug has proven effective in the prevention of squamous-cell carcinoma.
How Does Accutane (Isotretinoin) Work?
In acne, sebaceous glands produce excessive sebum (a thick and oily matter). This surplus sebum combines with dead skin cells, plugging the follicle.
It's yet to be discovered how exactly Isotretinoin works so far. However, the drug has been shown to reduce both sebum production and sebaceous gland size. That not only reduces acne but also helps the skin to regenerate itself quickly.
How to Take Accutane Capsules
Take Accutane capsules twice daily for 4-5 months. The correct dosage range is between 0.25-0.5mg/kg body weight. But, your physician may prescribe a maximum dosage, depending on your condition.
Don't crush or chew the capsules. Take them whole by mouth with plenty of water (a full glass) unless your doctor advises you otherwise. You should not lie down for at least ten minutes after taking the medication.
Before taking Accutane, carefully read the drug guide provided by your doctor. Discuss any concerns you may have with the healthcare provider. You must also sign a Patient Information form before consuming this medicine. Follow your caregiver's instructions keenly for the best results.
Note: The acne may worsen after a week or two of taking Accutane. Do not worry. It might take up to 2 months before you begin to see the desired results.
What If You Miss a Dose or Overdose?
If you miss an Accutane dose, skip it and make sure you take the next dose on time. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose. In case you overdose, seek medical help or contact the Poison Help line immediately.
Accutane overdose symptoms include but are not limited to headache, stomach pain, and dizziness. An overdose can also cause swollen or cracked lips and loss of coordination or balance.
Accutane (Isotretinoin) Side Effects
Like any other drug, Accutane has a set of side effects. The most common ones include the following:
- Skin reactions
- Cold symptoms, including sore throat, sneezing, and stuffy nose
- Vision issues (Xerosis)
- Dryness of lips, skin, eyes, or nose
- Mild headache, back pain, muscle problems, joint pain
Although rare, Accutane side effects may worsen. Contact your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following severe symptoms:
- Serious issues with vision or hearing
- Severe joint pain, back pain, bone pain
- Increased urination, increased thirst
- Signs of depression, including crying spells or unusual mood changes
- Very bad stomach problem, including diarrhea and bloody stools.
- Acute headaches, ringing in the ears, dizziness
- Signs of liver or pancreas issues, such as upper stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting
Accutane Interactions
Accutane interacts with other prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal products. They include the following:
- Doxycycline
- Acitretin
- Aminolevulinic acid
- Oxytetracycline
- Minocycline
- Tretinoin
Note: This isn't the entire list of medications that interact with Isotretinoin. Please inform your physician about all other drugs you may be using.
Accutane also interacts with the following five disease conditions:
- Intracranial hypertension
- Osteoporosis
- Hepatic diseases
- Hyperlipidemia
- Psychiatric disorder
Contraindication (When Not to Take Accutane)
You should not take Accutane in any of the following situations:
- Allergic to the drug. Tell your doctor if you're allergic to Isotretinoin or other Vitamin A-related medicines.
- Taking Vitamin A or a supplement containing the same. Using Accutane along with such supplements may increase the risk of side effects.
- You're pregnant or may conceive. The drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs, which can affect an unborn baby.
To safely consume Accutane, let your doctor know if you have been diagnosed with any of the following:
- Heart or liver diseases
- Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
- Osteoporosis
- Diabetes or Asthma
- Hypercholesterolemia
- Anorexia
Other Precautions Before/While Taking Accutane
Take the following precautions before taking Isotretinoin. You can speak to your health provider for further guidance:
- Avoid donating blood while taking Accutane. You also shouldn't donate blood for at least 30 days after you stop consumption.
- Do not use wax hair removers while consuming the drug and for at least six months after you stop taking it.
- Isotretinoin could increase your chances of severe sunburn. Avoid sunlight and wear protective clothing when you take this medicine. A good sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher) can also help while you're outdoors.
- The drug may impair your vision, particularly at night. Please avoid driving or dangerous activity until you're sure how the medication will affect you.
Accutane Storage
It would help if you stored accutane capsules at room temperature in a cool and dry place. Your ideal storage spot should be away from heat or direct sunlight.
Like any other medicine, always keep Isotretinoin away from the reach of children. Also, never give Accutane to someone else as it could harm them.