HOW ACCUTANE WORKS ?
The main effect of Accutane is in reducing the size and activity of the skin sebaceous glands. In some patients, Accutane causes a decrease in the quantity of sebum produced which lasts from two months to a year after completing the treatment. Additionally, a measurable reduction in the quantity of acne bacteria in the glands occurs. This decrease in the quantity of bacteria is not directly related to Accutan’s action, but rather is a result of the decrease in the size of the glands and in the quantity of sebum in them (the fatty substance found in the skin). Accutane causes a decrease in the sebum-producing cells in the gland, in turn reducing the total quantity of sebum by 90% or more. The exact reason for the effect that Accutane has on the cells in the gland is not known for certain.
Unblocking the openings of the sebaceous glands
Accutane also suppresses the production of skin cells which block the openings to the sebaceous glands. As a result, the quantity of comedones, or blackheads, and milia, or whiteheads, is reduced. A decrease in comedones in turn causes a decrease in the development of suppurations, or pus-filled acne pimples, whose formation we seek to prevent.
Anti-inflammatory activity
It has been found that Accutane decreases inflammation in laboratory trials, yet the clinical significance of this discovery remains unclear.
Accutane’s side effects
Accutane is particularly effective in mid-range severity cases of acne, which have not responded to treatments such as ointments or oral antibiotics. The most significant risk in taking Accutane is its potential for causing birth defects in the developing fetus of a pregnant acne patient. Because of this risk, female patients should take care not to conceive while using Accutane and for at least three months following the end of treatment.
How to get the most out of Accutane??
Attention female patients !!!
Accutane has been proven to cause birth defects in developing fetuses. Due to this danger, it is absolutely prohibited to conceive during Roaccutane treatment and for at least three months thereafter. All female users of Accutane should use two birth control methods during this entire period.
All patients:
All Accutane users should expect mild chapping of the lips, and occasionally peeling of the skin surrounding the fingernails. The chapping and / or peeling will disappear by the end of the treatment. Relief from dry skin is available in the form of creams which the doctor will provide. In rare cases, dryness of the nose, slight hair loss, or impaired night vision is experienced, all of which disappear by the end of treatment. In still rarer cases, a change in liver function, an increase in fat production, or mood changes can occur. Inform your doctor of any kidney or liver disorders, high fat content in the blood, or depression in your family or medical history. A blood count should be performed before starting treatment, as well as once a month during treatment. The doctor should also be informed of any inordinate physical exertion undergone by the patient during Accutane treatment. Avoid taking any vitamin supplements, as well as over-exposure to the sun, while taking Accutane.
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