Accutane

After you finish taking Accutane, there should be at least a 2-month "rest period" during which you are off the drug. This is because your acne may continue to get better even though you are no longer taking the medication. Once the 2 months are up, if your acne is still severe, your doctor may want to give you a second course of Accutane. If you are still growing, your doctor may recommend a longer "rest period."

Avoid consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Read the patient information leaflet available with the product.

Do not crush the capsules.

Do not share Accutane with anyone because of the risk of birth defects and other serious side effects.

• If you miss a dose...
  Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Do not take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature, away from light.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Accutane.

• Side effects may include:
  Back pain, blood disorders, decreased HDL (good) cholesterol, dizziness, dry skin and mucous membranes, hearing problems, high blood sugar, high cholesterol and triglyceride levels, joint pain, mental or mood disorders (such as depression or mood swings), pinkeye, rash, sensitivity to sunlight, vision problems

Why should Accutane not be prescribed?

If Accutane gives you an allergic reaction, you will not be able to use it.

If you are a woman of childbearing age, you should not take Accutane if you are pregnant, if you think there is a possibility you might get pregnant during the treatment, or if you are unable to keep coming back to the doctor for monthly checkups, including pregnancy testing.

Special warnings about Accutane

Stop taking Accutane and notify your doctor immediately at the first sign of a skin rash or any other allergic reaction. Although they are rare, serious and even fatal allergic reactions have been known to occur.