Acne and Accutane

Acne and Accutane

Accutane is one of the most powerful names in acne medication. Sometimes controversial, and sometimes confusing, Accutane deserves a bit of discussion. What is it? What does it do? Will it help my acne? Should I use Accutane?

Let’s understand what Accutane is.

First off, Accutane is the name brand for a drug called isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is a concentrated form of vitamin A, and is only available by prescription. Vitamin A is a key player in skin health.

Let’s understand what Accutane does.

Like every drug, Accutane has both advantages and disadvantages. Let’s discuss both.

Advantages of Accutane for Acne

Accutane, as one of the most powerful acne treatments on the market is an amazing anti-inflammatory. Thus, it works well on the toughest forms of inflammatory acne.

Accutane is also a powerful antibacterial drug. It can effectively reduce bacteria counts throughout the skin, including in the sebaceous glands.

Accutane reduces the output of oil from the sebaceous gland.

Accutane also prevents buildup of excess cells on the exterior skin, thus preventing the clogging of pores.

That list alone is impressive enough to make anyone suffering from acne want to sign up for treatments.

Disadvantages of Accutane

Despite the benefits, there are dangers. Here is a partial list of the reported side effects of Accutane usage.

Severe birth defects

Clinical depression<

Thinning of hair

Headaches

Conjunctivitis

Crohn’s Disease

Decreased vision

Nausea

Dry, flaky skin, eyes, nose, and mouth

Ulcerative colitis

Ouch. Any drug has side effects, but many of the side effects of Accutane are so severe, that its use as an acne treatment must be with absolute care. It is usually a last-resort treatment for those who suffer from severe acne.

Let’s find out if you should use it.

Realize that Accutane is a risky drug. If your acne is severe enough, your dermatologist may recommend it. Even then, you have an important decision to make as to whether or not you will use it. Consider Accutane last, and explore other options first.