Understanding Isotretinoin (Accutane)

Precautions

Isotretinoin is not suitable for everyone! This includes individuals with diabetes, asthma, inflammatory bowel disease, heart disease, osteoporosis, high cholesterol, or liver disease. It is not safe when patients have a history of these conditions! Certain mental health conditions, such as eating disorders and depression, also make this medication unsuitable. Thus, patients need to review their medical history with their doctor before taking this medication. It is also worth noting that individuals younger than twelve cannot take isotretinoin. It is not safe for them to do so!

It is vital for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid this medication. Even one dose can trigger complications and side effects. This includes miscarriage, birth defects, and premature birth! These complications are examples of why regular pregnancy tests are required when women are planning to take this medication, as well as during and after their treatment. In addition, women have to use birth control throughout their treatment. Most of them need to use two forms! Patients need to take tablets whole and with a glass of water. They need to consult their doctor about taking it with or without food. Prescriptions, which are only given as a thirty-day supply, have to be filled within a week! Regular blood tests are also necessary for patients on this medication.

Get information on the medication interactions next.