Accutane is prescribed to treat severe acne when other methods such as topical treatments or antibiotics are ineffective. It may be also prescribed for other conditions, as determined by a physician.

It is very important to understand how Accutane works prior starting the therapy. These pills contain an active ingredient Isotretinoin that belongs to the retinoid group of compounds – that are derived from Vitamin A. When taken orally, isotretinoin reduces natural oil (sebum) secretion from the skin. It is not unusual to have worse acne during the first few days of commencement of treatment. This will normally last for no more than 2 weeks. After that the initial skin irritation gradually declines.

Isotretinoin is a medication used for the treatment of severe acne and in some cases to prevent certain skin cancers. It is a retinoid and in small quantities occurs naturally in the body. Isotretinoin binds to and activates nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR), and regulates cell proliferation and differentiation. Isotretinoin also exhibits immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory responses and inhibits ornithine decarboxylase, this way decreasing polyamine synthesis and keratinization.

The treatment for acne. Contributes to the normalization of terminal cell differentiation, inhibits hyperproliferative epithelium of the excretory ducts of the sebaceous glands, the formation of detritus and facilitates its evacuation. Thereby decreasing sebum, facilitates its secretion, normal structure, decreasing the inflammatory reaction around the glands. For external and systemic application has antiseboreyny, substations, anti-inflammatory, Cerato – and immunomodulatory actions, strengthens the processes of regeneration in the skin.

Accutane should be used by the recommendation of the doctor, and if you have no contraindications for the use.

The dosage regimen is selected individually because the therapeutic efficiency and side effects of Isotretinoin depend on the dose and vary in different patients.

The initial recommended dosage for the acne treatment is 0,5 mg of Accutane per 1 kg of the body weight. The attack of the acne symptoms is possible in the first week of the treatment.

The dose adjustment is possible only in 2 weeks after the beginning of the treatment depending on the results of the therapy and intensity of the side effects. In case of no side effect the dose may be increased up to the maximal one: 1 mg per 1 kg of the body weight of the patient. The maximal dose may be used only for a short period of time, 3-4 weeks.

The average length of the treatment is 12-16 weeks. The pills should be taken during meals with a glass of water. Big daily doses are divided into 2-3 uses.

Using of Accutane may lead to developing of various side effects. Visit your doctor for medical aid if you suffer any queer symptoms and if they don’t pass off. Thus, common side effects include: dry eyes, skin, mouth, nose; peeling skin on some parts of the body; changed skin color; cracked, red, and sore lips; hair loss or undesired hair growth; slowed healing of cuts or sores; flushing; tiredness; sweating; cold symptoms and a few others. Among more complicated side effects are: headache; weakness or numbness of one part or side of the body; slow or difficult speech; blurred vision; seizures; rectal bleeding; stomach pain; difficulty swallowing or pain when swallowing; diarrhea; pain in different parts of the body or tissues; yellowing of the skin or eyes and others.