How Accutane Works
Acne is a problem that plagues millions of Americans. Many people eventually outgrow this troublesome skin condition, while others may continue to suffer from embarrassing blemishes well into adulthood. Cystic acne, unlike normal acne, forms deep, painful cysts in the skin rather than surface level pimples and blackheads. People that develop this type of blemish may find that it is resistant to traditional treatment. In previous years, Accutane was the leading cystic acne treatment on the market, however in 2009, the manufacturer, Hoffman-LaRoche, stopped selling this particular version of this medication.
People that have taken Accutane previously and developed one of these side effects may be interested in finding out how the medication works and why they are suffering from such extreme health concerns. Understanding how Accutane works can be helpful in identifying any issues that may arise because of its use.
Isotretinoin and Acne Treatment
Human faces contain a large amount of sebaceous glands which secrete sebum, a natural oil that helps to keep the skin from drying out. Frustratingly, sebum may also clog pores and lead to the development of acne in many people. The active ingredient in Accutane is isotretinoin, a retinoid found naturally in the human body, but in much smaller doses than Accutane contains. Retinoids are related to vitamin A and used in the body to control cell growth, bone density, and other important factors. Isotretinoin is used in Accutane because it works to limit the production of sebum in the skin.
The chemical compound of isotretinoin is very similar to another molecule, retinoic acid, which plays an important role in the development of embryos. Because of their similarities, exposure to isotretinoin in medications has been linked to serious mental and physical birth defects. When women take Accutane while they are pregnant or soon before they become pregnant, the child may develop irreversible health problems. These frequently require years of treatment and expensive surgeries to make manageable. Additionally, many of these birth-defects are life-threatening.
Other studies have shown that an extended exposure to isotretinoin may be linked to the development of dangerous digestive problems such as:
- Inflammatory bowel disease
- Crohn’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
These conditions led to so many lawsuits that Accutane manufacturer Hoffman- La Roche eventually took it off the market.
Studies are ongoing regarding links between isotretinoin and other dangerous side effects such as depression. It is not yet understood what the official link is between Accutane use and mental health problems, however since the product was released in the 1980s, reports of depression, suicidal tendencies, and suicidal ideation have been investigated.
Although Accutane is very successful in putting an end to
cystic acne, the potential side effects are also very risky. Long term use of Accutane and exposure to isotretinoin
can put consumers at risk of developing some of the previously mentioned side
effects. The chemical compounds used in
this medication are not understood well enough to put an end to the related
health problems and may want to be avoided by those seeking treatment for their
serious acne. If serious complications arise, it may be wise to consult an Accutane lawyer.
