There are various misconceptions and arguments about accutane among common people as well as doctors. People seem always confused when they learn the side effects of accutane, so in this article, you will clearly learn what is accutane? Why doctors recommend avoiding the use of accutane and what side effects it may produce? If you essentially need taking accutane, what should you do?
What is accutane?
Accutane is a brand name of the drug Isotretinoin that is a synthetic retinoid (derivative of vitamin A). The drug is used to inhibit the production of sebum from sebaceous glands and prescribed in severe acne.
Why doctors recommend avoiding the use of accutane?
Accutane can cause severe side effects such as birth defects that include but not limited to defects of baby’s ear, eyes, nose, face any other place inside or outside of the body. Besides these critical side effects, research also revealed that accutane directly affects the brain. Thus, accutane is full of danger and mystery.
What other side effects it may produce?
There are most drugs that show rare side effects, but accutane mostly show side effects. Some major side effects are hives, swelling of face, throat, nose, congestion, difficulty in breathing, rash etc.
Some other side effects are:
- Depression, difficulty in concentration, agitation and sleeping disorder
- Weakness especially on one side of the body.
- Severe headache with or without vomiting
- Severe pain in eye sockets
- Fast heart rate (tachycardia) and severe stomach
- Dark urine and jaundice indicated by yellowing of skin and eyes
- Fever, severe body ache
- Bone pains and fracture and muscle stiffness
- Cracking and peeling of skin
- Dizziness and drowsiness
Besides the side effects mentioned above, you may develop any other side effect depending upon your body response to the drug.
How should I take accutane (Isotretinoin)?
Do not take accutane unless your doctor prescribes you this medication. Do not take large dose than recommended by your doctor. You should not use accutane more than 30 days. Visit your doctor regularly as he or she advised.
Take accutane with a glass of water or milk that the capsule does not rupture within your esophagus (food pipe).
What should I avoid while I am taking accutane?
Do not take vitamin supplements specially vitamin A while you are taking accutane. Do not take any drug unless you consult with your doctor.
Conclusion:
Accutane or Isotretinoin is a synthetic retinoid that inhibits the production of excessive sebum. Accutane has various critical side effects that run life long, so avoid the use of accutane. Do not take accutane unless your doctor prescribes.