Roaccutane is a drug used to treat severe cases of acne that have not responded to other forms of treatment. It is also sometimes used to treat certain types of skin cancers. The active ingredient in Roaccutane is a chemical called isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is derived from vitamin A and is marketed under several names, including Accutane, Cloravis, Sotret, Oratane and Izotek.
Function
Under our skin are glands called sebaceous glands. These glands produce the natural oil found in our skin, called sebum. When the sebaceous glands produce too much sebum, the oil can not easily flow out of the sebaceous glands. This causes sebum to build up under the skin, creating conditions in which bacteria thrive. Bacteria feed on the sebum and produce fatty acids that cause the irritation and inflammation known as acne. Roaccutane works by shrinking the sebaceous glands and reducing their output. Reducing the output of sebum helps to prevent sebum from getting clogged in our pores. This means bacteria are less likely to be present and skin inflammation is reduced.
History
Isotretinoin was developed in 1982 by Hoffman-LaRoche. At the time, severe acne was being treated with antibiotics. Unfortunately, the antibiotics worked against only one of the types of bacteria that causes acne. As this particular strain of bacteria developed a resistance to the antibiotics over time, they became less effective. In 2002 Hoffman-LaRoche's patent for Isotretinoin expired and many other companies began manufacturing and selling isotretinoin. Because of the severe birth defects and side effects associated with isotretinoin, many countries started to institute prescription restrictions and monitoring in 2000. In 2006, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration started the iPledge program, which requires the registration of doctor, pharmacist and patient at the iPledge website prior to the receipt of isotretinoin (see Resources).
Side Effects
Roaccutane and other drugs containing isotretinoin can cause many side effects. Hair thinning and loss is a common problem with this drug and is considered to be permanent. This means that hair may not grow back after stopping treatment. Skin thinning may occur during treatment and may also be permanent. Many other side effects may continue for an extended period after treatment is stopped or be permanent, including loss of night vision, joint pain and inflammatory bowel disease. Other potential side effects are numerous and include major birth defects, depression, anxiety, dry eyes, back pain, increased blood glucose levels, nose bleeds, dry skin, headaches and dry skin. People taking Roaccutane may also find their contacts are uncomfortable during treatment.
Contraindications
Roaccutane and other isotretinoin-containing drugs should never be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. People with decreased liver function and high fat levels should not use Roaccutane. Roaccutane should not be used by anyone who is allergic to any of the drug's ingredients. This includes people with soy and peanut allergies, as well as people who suffer from fructose intolerance. People taking certain types of antibiotics should not use Roaccutane. Roaccutane should not be used to treat acne in any individual who has not yet reached puberty.
Warning
Roaccutane and other drugs containing isotretinoin should be used only under the close supervision of a licensed physician and pharmacist. Because so many of the drug's side effects can be permanent, it is crucial that you follow the treatment instructions of both your doctor and pharmacist. If you feel at all ill when taking Roaccutane, call your doctor immediately. While taking Roaccutane, and for 6 months after stopping treatment, do not wax any part of your body or give blood. Avoid exposure to the sun when taking Roaccutane. Wear a sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher if sun exposure is unavoidable.
