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Tuesday, June 1, 2010

Accutane and it's side effects


Definition: Isotretinoin (Generic Name) is a powerful and effective medicine derived from vitamin A. Doctors prescribe it to treat severe acne only after other treatments have failed.

It was reported in the Seattle times that Roche officials (manufacturer) decision to withdraw Accutane reflected market pressures and the cost of lawsuits, not safety concerns?? Wow! Plaintiffs have won an estimated $33 million in judgments against Roche for bowel disorders, according to an industry publication, Dermatology Times.
Below is part of the article written in the Seattle Times.

Over it's 25 year history, Isotretinoin has been found to cause serious birth defects and possibly to increase the risk of depression and suicidal behavior. Women who take isotretinoin have to register with the government, sign a consent form saying they understand the medical risks, use two forms of birth control and submit to monthly pregnancy tests.Isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A, it usually is taken daily for 3 to 6 months, accomplishing lasting improvements in 99% of patients and cure approximately 70%.

Occasionally isotretinoin is used for psoriasis, lupus and cancer. Accutane has been used by 13 million people worldwide and was one of Roche's best selling drugs with about $200 million a year in sales before it's patent expired in 2002. The drug also has been publicly and emotionally linked to an increased risk of depression, including suicides and some families of those who killed themselves have pressed the FDA for it's removal. U.S. Representative Bark Stupak, D-Michigan, whose teenage son committed suicide after taking accutane has been among them.

Below is a list of some serous side effects of Accutane aka Isotretinoin

1. Ulcerative Colitis
2. Crohn's Disease
3. Inflammatory Bowel Disease
4. Severe Depression
5. Suicidal thoughts
6. Birth Defects
7. Liver Damage
8. Allergic Reactions

If you want my two cents, I say find something else to manage your acne. Some people have mild enough acne that can be corrected with routine facial treatments with an Esthetician. If not ask your doctor for a different prescription. Now I have a question for you... What price are you willing to pay for beauty??

Until next time Love the skin you're in!

Skinchick '-)

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