What is accutane and how does it treat acne?

My doctor prescribed me accutane (isotretinoin) for my acne.  What is it and does it work?

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is for patients who suffer from severe inflammatory acne.

Doctors will sometimes prescribe isotretinoin (one brand is Accutane) to patients who suffer from severe inflammatory acne. Isotretinoin is a drug that is taken orally once or twice a day with food for up to four to five months. The way that isotretinoin works is by shrinking the oil glands under the skin thereby reducing the production of oils which then leads to a decrease in bacteria that contributes to acne.

Advantages of Isotretinoin (Accutane)

• Very effective. Studies show that it can get rid of or almost completely rid acne in 90 percent of patients.

Disadvantages of Isotretinoin (Accutane)

• Increase in triglycerides and cholesterol
• Can be harmful to the liver
• Depression
• Loss of appetite
• Dry eyes
• Dry mouth and lips
• Dry nose
• Dry itchy skin
• Nosebleeds
• Muscle aches
• Sensitivity to sunlight
• Poor night vision

Pregnancy and Isotretinoin (Accutane)

• Can cause fetal birth defects in pregnant woman.
• It is important to NOT get pregnant while taking Isotretinoin.
• Women should simultaneously use two separate forms of birth control for the duration of one month before beginning treatment, during the entire course of treatment, and for an entire month following treatment. A doctor should be consulted after the usage of Isotretinoin before attempting to get pregnant.