| What is Accutane?
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Accutane is prescribed for the treatment of severe disfiguring cystic acne that has not cleared up in response to milder medications. |
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| Are there any side effects associated with Accutane?
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Accutane side effects may include abnormal hair growth or loss, allergic reaction, bleeding gums, blood in urine, bowel inflammation and pain, bruising, changes in blood sugar or cholesterol levels, changes in skin pigmentation, chest pain, decreased night vision, decreased tolerance to contact lenses, delay in wound healing, depression, difficulty sleeping, dizziness, drowsiness, dry or fragile skin, dry or cracked lips, dry mouth, dry nose, fatigue, flushing, headache, hearing problems, heartbeat irregularities, herpes, inflammation or sores in the esophagus, itching, joint pain, liver disorders, menstrual changes, muscle wasting, nail disorders, nausea, nervousness, nosebleeds, peeling palms or soles, pinkeye, rash, skin infections, stomach and intestinal discomfort, stroke, sudden drop in blood pressure, sunburn-sensitive skin, suppression of
growth, sweating, swelling due to fluid retention, tendon and ligament problems, urinary discomfort, vision problems, vomiting, weakness,
and weight loss. If
the side effects continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. |
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| How is Accutane taken?
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Follow the directions for taking Accutane provided by your doctor. Take Accutane with food or milk. Depending on your reaction to Accutane, your doctor may need to adjust the dosage upward or downward. If you respond quickly and very well, your doctor may take you off Accutane even before the 15 or 20 weeks are up. After you finish taking Accutane, there should be at least a 2-month
rest period during which you are off the drug. This is because your acne may
continue to get better even though you are no longer taking the medication. Do not crush the
capsules. If you miss a dose take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take
two doses at once. |
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| Are there any effects of taking Accutane with other medications?
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Some medicines may interact with Accutane. Inform your doctor of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.
While taking Accutane, do not take vitamin supplements containing vitamin
A since Accutane and vitamin A are chemically related. Accutane should not be combined with tetracycline antibiotics. |
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| How should I store Accutane?
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Store Accutane at room temperature in a tightly closed container, away from heat and light. |
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Return to health network. |
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