Side effects
Long-term
After stopping
Interactions
Seeing a doctor
Summary
Accutane (isotretinoin) is a treatment for severe acne. However, it can also cause severe side effects such as dry, cracked, or peeling skin and eye inflammation. It can also increase your risk of developing depression or other sexual problems.
Isotretinoin, a retinoid, is a drug similar to vitamin A.
The British Association of Dermatologists reports that about 90% of Accutane-treated patients experience significant improvement in their acne, even though the condition may get worse over time.
Many side effects are associated with Accutane, some of which can be severe. The Food and Drug Administration's (FDA)Trusted Source recommends only using isotretinoin when supervised by a qualified healthcare professional.
This article will discuss some side effects of Accutane. This article will examine Accutane's long-term side effects and advise when to consult a doctor.
Side effects Accutane
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There are many side effects that Accutane can cause.
People will be tested for liver function and cholesterol before taking Accutane. They will also need to have blood tests at regular intervals.
Accutane can cause the following side effects:
Dry, cracked, or peeling skin
Dry or inflamed eyes
Chubby lips
Dry nose, possibly with nosebleeds
Headaches
Aches and pains
Accutane-treated patients may be more sensitive to UV light than others. Therefore, they should protect themselves from the sun and avoid direct sunlight.
Accutane users should avoid cosmetic procedures, such as waxing, for at least six months. This is to prevent scarring.
Accutane is often mentioned in weight loss or weight gain. The FDA does not list weight loss as a side effect.
Pregnancy risks
Accutane should not be taken by anyone pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Accutane can cause:
Miscarriage
congenital disabilities
premature labor
Death in infants
These effects can be severe and are not uncommon. The Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center states that 20 and HTML35% of fetuses could develop malformations from retinoid exposure in pregnancy.
Different countries have implemented other regulatory procedures to protect against fetal exposure. These include asking women to use two contraception methods before and after retinoid treatment and regularly testing for pregnancy.
In 2006, the United States introduced IPLEDGE to reduce fetal exposure.
In one 2019 analysis.
Allergy reactions
Accutane may cause allergic reactions in some people.
Cholesterol and fat
The body may also experience an increase in blood cholesterol and fats. Regular blood tests allow doctors to monitor them.
Red and white blood cells
Accutane can cause a decrease in red and white blood cell count. More than one out of ten people who take Accutane may experience anemia.
Long-term side effects
We will be discussing Accutane's potential side effects over the long term in greater detail in the sections below.
Fertility and sexual function
Accutane appears not to affect fertility. Scientists have discovered a link that Accutane can cause sexual side effects such as:
erectile dysfunction
Loss of libido
Genital numbness
Mental health issues
Accutane can cause serious mental health problems.
For example, Accutane may cause:
Depression
psychosis
Suicidal thoughts
These rare but severe side effects can persist even after Accutane is stopped. Therefore, it is important to continue your care.
Neurological problems
Accutane can raise blood pressure in the brain. This can cause permanent vision loss or, in rare cases, even death.
Internal organ damage
Accutane may also cause organ damage. Accutane can cause damage to the following:
Pancreas
Bowel
Esophagus
Liver
Problems with bone, muscle, and joints
Accutane can cause:
bones
Muscles
Ligaments
Joints
Before taking any drug, discussing all exercises with your doctor is important.
Teenagers still growing may experience slow bone growth with Accutane.
Diabetes and blood sugar control
Accutane can raise blood sugar levels and, in rare cases, cause diabetes.
Vision problems
Accutane can cause severe eye problems, including loss of night vision and permanent blindness.
Contact lenses may also be affected by this medication. This problem could persist after treatment.
Serious skin problems
Accutane can cause severe skin conditions in addition to the less common side effects.
These include:
erythema multiforme
Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Toxic epidermal necrolysis
Side effects of stopping the drug
Even after Accutane has been stopped, some side effects can persist. These side effects can lead to permanent problems such as vision loss, scarring, and internal organ damage.
According to one 2018 review, some people experienced sexual side effects that became more severe or worsened after stopping treatment.
A 2010 study by Trusted Source discovered increased suicide risk for six months after Accutane had been stopped. The risk of suicide attempts was greater before Accutane treatment began. Accutane does not pose any additional risk.
Interactions
Accutane users should consult their doctor about any other medication or herbal supplements they may be taking.
People who are taking Accutane should be careful:
vitamin A supplements
Tetracycline antibiotics
corticosteroids
Any other treatments for acne
Alcohol (or limit it)
Phenytoin (Dilantin).
Sunbeds and strong sunlight
Cosmetic skin treatments, such as laser or waxing, can be done.
Accutane may reduce the effectiveness of progestin-only birth control pills. Talk to your doctor if you are considering taking this medication. Birth control pills may be less effective if you take St. John's Wort.
How to visit a doctor
Accutane users should consult a doctor if they experience any side effects or difficulties.
You may also experience other symptoms that could indicate serious conditions. These symptoms include:
Psychosis or depression symptoms
There are several indicators that there is an increase in brain pressure, such as:
Bad headaches
Blurred vision
dizziness
nausea
vomiting
seizures
Stroke
Even after Accutane has been stopped, some side effects can persist. These side effects can lead to permanent problems such as vision loss, scarring, and internal organ damage.
According to one 2018 review, some people experienced sexual side effects that became more severe or worsened after stopping treatment.
A 2010 study by Trusted Source discovered increased suicide risk for six months after Accutane had been stopped. The risk of suicide attempts was greater before Accutane treatment began. Accutane does not pose any additional risk.
A severe rash that can blister or peel. Sometimes it is accompanied by flu-like symptoms.
Possible abdominal problems or organ damage symptoms, such as:
nausea
vomiting
bad stomach pains
diarrhea
Bleeding from the rectum
Chest or bowel pain
The skin and whites of your eyes turn yellow
Dark urine or difficulty urinating
Muscle weakness and pain
Some areas may experience swelling or bruising
Having trouble moving your arms and legs
Ringing in the ears or worsening of hearing
Dry eyes or vision problems that cause pain
An allergic reaction
Dark urine
Accutane users who notice these symptoms should immediately stop using the medication and contact a doctor.
People with joint or back pain should seek medical advice.
Anyone who breaks a bone must inform their doctor that they are taking Accutane.
