Accutane is a derivative of Vitamin A that belongs to the class of medications known as retinoids. They are generally used for treating skin problems. Accutane is prescribed to treat severe cases of acne that have failed to respond to other treatments. The drug is available in 10 mg and 40 mg capsules.
How It Works
Accutane helps to clear up severe acne by lowering the production of sebum. The powerful drug can also prevent a recurrence of acne breakouts and smooth previous acne scars.
Benefits of Accutane
• Treats severe acne
• Prevents future acne breakouts
• Smoothes scars caused by past acne breakouts
• Unclogs pores
Taking Accutane
You should take Accutane according to your doctor’s prescription, as the drug is very strong. Your dosage will be determined according to your response to the drug, your weight and the severity of your acne. You should take Accutane with food in one dose or 2 divided doses daily. Most patients are prescribed 0.5 mg for each kilogram of body weight during the first 2 to 4 weeks of treatment. Your doctor can later adjust your daily dose, depending on your response to the drug.
Possible Side Effects
Accutane can cause various side effects that include the following:
• Peeling skin on soles of feet or palms of hands
• Dry, itchy or crusty skin
• Upset stomach
• Abnormal tiredness
• Mild headaches
• Dry nose or mouth
• Trouble wearing contact lenses because of dry eyes
• Increased sensitivity to sunlight
• Thinning hair
These side effects should disappear after you stop taking Accutane. If any of them become bothersome, be sure to talk to your doctor.