ACCUTANE a Devastating Acne Treatment

Millions of desperate acne sufferers will try just about anything to alleviate the serious skin condition that is affecting them with devastating effects in terms of appearance and self-esteem.

Considered a “last resort” in treating severe acne, Accutane has proved to be much more dangerous than initially thought.

A powerful toxin with numerous negative side effects, this drug has been investigated repeatedly by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration).

Accutane, also know as Isotretinoin (generic name), is a retinoid and it works by altering the DNA transcription. Well aware of the many possible side effects, physicians will give verbal warnings and ask for written consent before prescribing such medication.

The most dangerous side effect, documented with plenty of evidence, is the high risk for birth defects from physical malformation to mental retardation.

Common side effects include:

- conjunctivitis (pinkeye)

- excessively dry skin and peeling of the palms and soles

- cracked lips

- dry nose and nosebleed

- dry mouth

- itching

- joint pain

- depression (sometime leading to suicide)

Less common side effects

- bowel inflammation resulting in stomach and intestinal discomfort

- ulceration of the cornea for contact leans users resulting in vision problems (especially at night time)

- delay in wound healing

- could affect blood sugar levels

- nausea and vomiting

- urinary discomfort

- headache

- fatigue

The human body is designed to work as a whole. Trying to solve one problem and create a dozen others in the process dose not make sense. Most teenagers are under pressure to solve their acne condition as soon as possible and give little thought to the long term consequences.

For the last 20 years the manufacturer of Accutane, Hoffman La Roche has been involved in numerous lawsuits; since this drug is one of their top sellers, (with an estimated annual sale of 1.2 billions), they fought hard to keep the drug on the market. To date the pharmaceutical company has paid 33 millions in damage awarded from product liability suits.

Most recently, over 500 lawsuits have been filed in federal and state courts since the latest reports linking Accutane to Chron disease.

As of July 2009 the use of Accutane has been finally banned.

For financial and legal reasons, the manufacturer Hoffman – La Roche cased selling it, but the generic form Isotretinion is still available from other manufactures.

The controversy regarding the use of Accutane has divided the medical establishment; the possibility of finding a dermatologist more inclined to prescribe this lethal weapon is real so every potential user should consider the risks before making a decision.

For the unfortunate ones that experienced some or all of the above adverse reactions after using Accutane, The FDA Med Watch website is open for comments or you can call 1-800-332-1088 and report your case.

For effective and safe ways of treating acne please see