A chemical cousin of vitamin A, Accutane is the brand name of the chemical compound Isotretinoin. The drug is popular because of its extreme effectiveness against the worst cases of aggressive acne. Even those that have seen little relief from traditional creams and antibiotics. It is common to see complete remission or noticeable improvement after a single cycle of Accutane (Isotretinoin) treatment which usually lasts between 15 and 20 weeks.
While normally used to treat severe acne cases, it has also proven effective against normal acne that may be resistant to other more conservative methods of treatment. While it remains an anti-acne treatment, it has been tested with limited success in lab trials against genital warts.
What Exactly Does It Do?
In simplified terms, acne is produced by excess oils and other substances clogging pores. Accutane, or more specifically its active ingredient called Isotretinoin, reduces the size of these glands which dimishes the oil production and the appearance of acne.
Accutane (Isotretinoin) Dosage Information
The medicine comes in an easy swallow pill form for oral administration. The dosage cycle usually lasts between 15 and 20 weeks with pills being taken every day. Patients normally take a break from the treatment after completing the cycle prescribed by their medical adviser. Many patients report experiencing positive anti-acne effects well after the cycle has been completed.
Are There Any Other Details I Need to Know?
Isotretinoin has been proven to produce a number of serious side effects in some patients. In an effort to raise awareness of the potentially harmful unwanted side effects of the medicine, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) assigned a "Black Box Label" status to the substance.
Because of these potential health problems, the FDA has deemed that Accutane should only be made available through prescribers and pharmacies that are active members of the FDA distribution program known as iPLEDGE. Even patients that plan to use Accutane are asked to register with iPLEDGE before use. However, you can get Isotretinoin, the generic form of Accutane, online through special pharmacies.
Accutane, the commercial brand of Isotretinoin, has also been named in 5,000 civil suits by users that allege various long term adverse unwanted effects.
Accutane has been on the market for a number of years and there are quite a few reviews available online. As with any drug, product or service, it has received its fair share of good and bad press. However, you should always consult with a qualified medical adviser before starting treatment with any type of medicine.
The drug, while effective, has a number of potential side effects you should research carefully. Please research other natural remedies and consult with your doctor before beginning any Accutane treatment.
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Read more about Accutane Reviews and Accutane Lawsuit at sideeffectsaccutane.com.