Accutane is prescribed to patients suffering from nodular acne for whom other methods of treatment proved inefficient. In order to be able to take Accutane you need to register in a special iPLEDGE program aimed at preventing women of child-bearing potential from getting pregnant. Accutane can cause severe birth defects in unborn babies – their skull, face, ears, heart and brain can get seriously affected. It’s therefore very important to observe all the guidelines provided by your doctor and specified in the rules of the program (that you have to agree to in writing). Do not start using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or allergic to isotretinoin or parabens. Some medical conditions (osteoporosis, heart disease, liver disease, asthma or eating disorders) may be a contraindication for taking this drug. Your doctor may also recommend a lower dosage to minimize potential side effects.
During the whole period of treatment with Accutane you must avoid donating blood, participating in sports activities that can result in an injury (as this drug can temporarily weaken your bones), using wax hair removers or laser skin treatment (Accutane increases your skin sensitivity and can lead to sunburns). If you have to stay outdoors for a long period of time it’s recommended to use sunscreen with a high protection factor of at least 15.
Brand names: Accutane, Amnesteem, Claravis, Sotret, Accutane Roche, Amnesteem (Mylan), Claravis (Barr), Decutan (Actavis), Isotane (Pacific Pharmaceuticals), Sotret (Ranbaxy), Oratane (Genepharm Australasia) or Roaccutane (Roche), Izotek
Generic names: Isotretinoin
