Common use
Accutane is a synthetic glucocorticoid (steroid hormone) available in cream, ointment, and lotion forms, used on the skin to relieve itching, inflammation of eczema, dermatitis, allergies, and other skin rashes. In general, the anti-inflammatory mechanism of its action is not determined. It is supposed that Accutane induces the production of proteins that inhibit phospholipase A2, known as lipocortins. These proteins control the biosynthesis of potent mediators of inflammation such as prostaglandins and leukotrienes, inhibiting the release of their common predecessor: arachidonic acid. Accutane is used to treat inflammation and itching dermatoses treated by glucocorticosteroids (GCS); conditions associated with hyperkeratosis (atopic and seborrheic dermatitis, psoriasis, chronic eczema) in adults and children older than two years old.
Dosage and directions
Apply a thin layer directly to the affected skin once daily. Avoid applying it to wide areas of skin, as too much absorption can lead to unwanted side effects. Do not cover it with airtight dressings unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Precautions
Keep Accutane out of your eyes. Long-term use and local application may cause a reversible suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal system. If irritation occurs, discontinue using Accutane cream and inform your doctor to get appropriate treatment.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to the components of Accutane.
Possible side effects
Rare adverse effects may occur, including burning, itching, skin atrophy, and acne rosacea. In general, glucocorticosteroids (GCS) may cause the appearance of different conditions: irritation and dryness, folliculitis, hypertrichosis, acne-like rash, hypopigmentation, perioral dermatitis, allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), secondary infection, striae, and miliaria (sweat rash). The likelihood of these adverse effects increases with the use of airtight dressings.
Drug interaction
By its chemical properties, Accutane is not compatible with alkalis. Anthralin topicals (used to treat psoriasis) cannot be co-administered with Accutane as it worsens symptoms of psoriasis.
Missed dose
If you forgot to apply this medication on time, do it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, just skip the one you have missed and return to your regular schedule.
Overdose
Long-term use of this medication may cause a group of symptoms called Cushing’s syndrome, which includes the following symptoms: acne, depression, excessive hair growth, high blood pressure, humped upper back, insomnia, moon-faced appearance, muscle weakness, obese trunk, paranoia, stretch marks, susceptibility to bruises, and fractures. If you suppose that you have overdosed on this drug and have serious side effects, contact your doctor and seek immediate medical help.
Storage
Store Accutane at 2-25°C (36-77°F). Shake the lotion before each use.
Disclaimer
We provide only general information about medications, which does not cover all directions, possible drug interactions, or precautions. Information on the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed upon with your healthcare adviser or the doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim the reliability of this information and any mistakes it may contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special, or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and for consequences of self-treatment.