Information about Isotretinoin (Generic Accutane) :


Isotretinoin is a form of vitamin A. It helps to decrease the amount of sebum that is released by the special glands. In that way Isotretinoin increases the rate at which the skin renews itself. It is usually administered to treat severe recalcitrant nodular acne unresponsive to conventional therapy.

It may also be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using Isotretinoin:
Before using Isotretinoin you should tell your doctor if you have any medical conditions listed below: a personal or family history of mental problems including depression, suicidal behavior, or psychosis (loss of contact with reality, hearing voices, or seeing things that are not there); diabetes; asthma; heart disease; osteoporosis (bone loss) or weak bones; anorexia nervosa; high cholesterol or triglyceride levels (types of fat) in the blood; or liver disease.

In such cases you may not be able to use Isotretinoin, or you may require a special dosage adjustment or monitoring during treatment.

Be aware that Isotretinoin may interact with some medicines. Consult with your health care provider in case you are taking any other drugs, especially any of the following: benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or other drying medicines used for acne; corticosteroids (example: prednisone); medicines for seizures; orlistat; alcohol; other drugs that make you more sensitive to the sun such as sulfa drugs; progestin-only birth control hormones (examples: 'Minipills' like Aygestin®, Micronor®, Nor-QD® or injectable/implantable products such as Depo-Provera® or Norplant®); tetracycline antibiotics (examples: doxycycline, tetracycline); vitamins and other supplements containing vitamin A; warfarin.

How to take Isotretinoin:
Take Isotretinoin twice a day with food or milk. It is recommended to take each dose of Isotretinoin with a full glass of water, as it is important for the purpose of prevention from irritating of the esophagus. Avoid chewing or sucking at the capsule. The course of treatment lasts no more than a 30-day. A special yellow self-adhesive sticker should be attached to every prescription. In case your prescription does not have it, tell your doctor. The pharmacy should not fill the prescription without this special sticker.

Do not stop taking Isotretinoin even if you feel well. It is possible that acne may get worse at the beginning of treatment, but then begin to improve. Follow all medical prescriptions strictly.

Lab tests, including blood tests, may be performed while you are using Isotretinoin. It is important to control your progress or to check for side effects. Follow all doctor and lab appointments strictly.

Do not share this medication with anyone else.

Isotretinoin should be stored Isotretinoin at indoor temperature. Avoid moisture and heat.

In case you miss a dose of Isotretinoin, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next intake, skip the missed dose and take it according to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to catch up.

PREGNANCY and BREAST-FEEDING:
Isotretinoin is in the FDA pregnancy category X. You should not use Isotretinoin in case you are pregnant or if you could become pregnant during course of treatment or for one month after you stop using Isotretinoin. It is known that Isotretinoin is extremely deleterious to an unborn baby. In case you become pregnant, stop using birth control, or miss your menstrual period, immediately stop taking Isotretinoin and consult with your doctor. It is not clear if Isotretinoin passes into breast milk. Avoid taking Isotretinoin without medical consultation if you breast-feed a baby.

Seek emergency in case overdosage is suspected. Symptoms of overdose are vomiting, abdominal pain, flushing of the face, inflammation of the lips, headache, dizziness, and clumsiness.

What should I avoid while taking Isotretinoin?
Avoid taking vitamin supplements contains vitamin A during course of treatment with Isotretinoin, as it could increase the risk of side effects.
You should not be a blood donor if you are taking Isotretinoin and for at least 1 month following the end of treatment. Donated blood may be harmful.

It is not recommended to use wax hair removal systems or have any skin resurfacing procedures (dermabrasion or laser treatment) performed while taking Isotretinoin and for six months following treatment, as it may lead to serious scarring.

The sensitivity of the skin to sunlight may be increased while using Isotretinoin. Try to avoid exposure to sunlight or UV rays, as you may experience severe sunburn.

You night vision may be decreased while taking Isotretinoin. Avoid driving at night or drive with extreme caution, as you may have sudden onset of decreased night vision.

Possible side effects of Isotretinoin:
Isotretinoin is indicated to treat severe nodular acne that has not been helped by other treatments, including antibiotics. However, Isotretinoin usage may lead to the development of serious side effects. Before you begin treatment with Isotretinoin, discuss with your doctor how bad the acne is, the possible benefits and the possible side effects. Be aware of the serious risks associated with Isotretinoin usage.

Do not stop taking Isotretinoin but consult with your doctor in case you have any of side effects especially bothersome listed below: inflammation, dryness, or cracking of the lips; dry skin, dry mouth, dry or bleeding nose, dryness of the eyes and/or difficulty wearing contact lenses; itching; or increased sensitivity of the skin to the sun.

Stop taking Seek emergency immediately in case you have any of these severe side effects: an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); changes in vision, blurred vision, or decreased vision (especially at night); painful or constant dryness of the eyes; depression including feelings of sadness, crying spells, irritability, changes in sleep patterns, unusual tiredness, trouble concentrating, loss of appetite, and/ or suicidal thoughts or other mental problems; stomach, chest, or bowel pain; rectal bleeding, or severe or bloody diarrhea; difficulty or pain when swallowing; new or worsening heartburn; yellowing of the skin or eyes or persistently dark urine; severe headache or dizziness; seizures; nausea and vomiting; joint or muscle pain or bone problems; hearing problems or hearing loss; trouble breathing; fainting; increased thirst or urination; slurred speech or problems moving; leg swelling; increased levels of cholesterol or triglyceride (types of fat) in your blood (detected by blood tests).

What is the expiration date of the pills?
This information is mentioned on each blister. The expiration date is 2 years from the date of manufacture.