Roaccutane is a brand name for isotretinoin, a drug developed by Roche Laboratories for the control of severe nodular acne. While this drug is well-known for causing birth defects, other long-term effects are not so well-publicized. All potential side effects are fully disclosed in the package insert. As with any medication, the consumer should read all potential side effects before choosing the right medication for their condition.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Isotretinoin has been associated with inflammatory bowel disease. The condition may not resolve after discontinuing treatment with isotretinoin. Symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease include diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fever, abdominal cramps and pain. If symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease occur while taking isotretinoin, discontinue use and consult your physician immediately.
Psychiatric Disorders
Isotretinoin may cause depression, psychosis, increase the risk of suicide, aggressive behavior and violent behaviors. This condition may continue after discontinued use of isotretinoin and may require long-term psychiatric care. Family members are often interviewed for any signs of genetic predisposition to psychiatric conditions prior to a patient being prescribed isotretinoin. Information regarding potential psychiatric side effects is available in a patient hand-out available from your doctor.
Hearing Impairment
Hearing impairment has been reported as an adverse effect of Accutane therapy. There have been reports that hearing was not restored after discontinuing the medication. Isotretinoin therapy should be discontinued if there is tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, reduced hearing or other symptoms of hearing impairment. Additional medical care should be sought to reduce long-term hearing impairment.
Pancreatitis
In patients with normal or elevated triglyceride levels, acute pancreatitis has developed. Elevated serum triglyceride levels have been reported in 25% of patients treated with isotretinoin. Fatal pancreatic hemorrhagic pancreatitis has been associated with use of isotretinoin. Symptoms of pancreatitis include swelling the abdomen, acute abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, fever and a rapid pulse. If symptoms of pancreatitis develop, seek medical attention immediately.
Warning
There have been numerous lawsuits regarding the list of long-term side effects of Accutane. On June 29, 2009, Hoffman LaRoche informed the Food and Drug Administration of intent to discontinue the manufacture and sale of Accutane in the United States immediately.
Tags: bowel disease, have been, inflammatory bowel disease, side effects, with isotretinoin