Sep 04
2008If your dermatologist has suggested accutane acne treatment for you don’t panic. He knows the dangers of accutane and has probably discussed all the options with you.
This article is a refresher on accutane acne medication just in case you want to review what you have probably told already. The product information sheet provided with accutane is really confusing.
Even though accutane acne medicine will cause adverse side effects it does have good effects. Number one is that it does cure acne. Within a few weeks of treatment your cystic acne will go away.
Accutane works by drying up the oil in the sebaceous gland that commonly blocks the pores and causes acne.
Accutane often will keep working for months or even years after you quit taking it, so if you are a good candidate you might want to try it. Lots of teens have benefited from Accutane, and adult acne sufferers also have experienced success!
The bad news about accutane medication can outweigh all these good qualities. It does have side effects. At the very least you can expect drying of the skin, nose and lips. It will also cause irritation of the eyelids and eyes. Taking a vitamin E supplement and using a moisturizer can alleviate these symptoms.
Birth defects are one of the biggest dangers of accutane medication. Women who are in their childbearing years probably shouldn’t consider accutane at all. At the very least extra precautions should be taken against becoming pregnant.
If you are female and your dermatologist prescribes accutane and you agree to the treatment you will be given a pregnancy test. You will also be required to sign a waiver that will release him from liability in case you do become pregnant.
The best course of action is to double or triple up on birth control - some physicians say a form of hormonal birth control (such as a patch, pill or shot) plus a spermicidal (foam, lubricant) plus a barrier (condom, etc) is the best way to go. This should give you an idea how serious it is!
There are some other adverse side effects of accutane including suicidal depression! You can also develop liver problems, hair loss, loss of some vision and headaches. You will be tested regularly for liver problems and should advise your doctor of any of the other symptoms.
Granted some of these adverse reactions are rare. They occur is less than 10% of patients. But you need to be aware of them before you agree to accutane acne treatment. Accutane is serious acne medicine!
Your dermatologist will prescribe accutane as a last resort because it is such a risk. Prescription medication in general has risks but accutane is especially risky.
There is an alternative to accutane!
Before you agree to taking accutane you should check out alternative treatments. There is a product available that is all natural, just as effective as accutane and has none of the side effects.
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