Precautions and Contraindications

Accutane belongs to the retinoid class of drugs, which means that it is a derivative of vitamin A. The active component of the medication is called Isotretinoin. It helps to diminish the inflammatory processes of the skin and slows down the growth of skin cells thus preventing the pores from clogging. In addition, the remedy lowers the function of the sebaceous glands and makes them smaller. It promotes the reduction of skin oil amounts, which naturally leads to acne curing.

Being a vitamin A drug, there is a wide range of Isotretinoin precautions. During the therapy with this medication, a special attention should be given to individuals suffering from:

  • Cardiological problems;
  • Mental health issues;
  • Diabetes;
  • Eating disorders (e.g. anorexia, bulimia);
  • Liver disease;
  • Gastric tract illnesses (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease);
  • Problems with bones;
  • Elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol.

Any of the enumerated issues may raise the risks of evolving side effects. That’s why such patients should be closely monitored by the medical specialists. There might be some other health conditions, which may influence your Accutane therapy tactics. Consult with your doctor to know the details.

Accutane is forbidden to be taken by expectant mothers as it leads to severe inborn pathologies or death of the fetus. Women taking the preparation are supposed to use two reliable birth control methods simultaneously to prevent any possibility of getting pregnant. Every female patient has to pass a pregnancy test once in 30 days or each time she gets a prescription refill. The pregnancy may be planned in not less than a month after the therapy is discontinued.

Breastfeeding women are also recommended to avoid Accutane intake as the influence of the drug on the nursing baby is not known. In case you want to start the treatment, stop breastfeeding.

It is prohibited to donate the blood during the process of curing and during a month after it. The ban is connected with the probability that the blood containing Isotretinoin may be transfused to a pregnant woman. Hence, her unborn baby may be in danger.

One of the main Accutane contraindications is an allergy to Isotretinoin or any inactive component of the pills.

How to take the drug correctly?

One of the key recommendations to the patient taking Accutane is that the drug should be administered with a fatty meal. It increases the absorption of the medicine into the bloodstream. The preparation is usually taken twice a day with a full glass of water. Never chew, break or crush the capsules as it may result in irritation of the gastrointestinal tract.

Are there any other peculiarities of the treatment?

Individuals using Accutane should take into account that their skin gets more predisposed to sunburns, so they are advised to apply a high SPF sunscreen every time they go outside.

Furthermore, no cosmetic procedures aimed at smoothing your skin should be performed for half a year after the end of the curing because of a high probability of scarring.

Some people may experience a decrease in vision, especially at night. That’s why it’s better to avoid driving or operating the machinery after dark.

Drinking alcohol along with Accutane intake may elevate your potential to evolving side effects.