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Submitted on : 2008-05-02 08:56:44 |
Cystic Acne and Accutane TreatmentPeople with severe nodular or cystic acne should always consult a dermatologist for the most appropriate treatment. For patients suffering with severe inflammatory acne that does not improve with traditional medication, a doctor may prescribe the retinoid isotretinoin, or Accutane. This drug is taken by mouth, usually once or twice a day with food for a period of 15 to 20 weeks.
Accutane has been shown to dramatically reduce the size of the patient’s oil glands within the skin. As a result, much less oil is produced, the growth of bacteria is decreased, and marked improvements in complexion will appear.
Taking Accutane as a treatment for cystic acne is very effective since it can help reduce or prevent scarring. In patients who have been using Accutane for 15 to 20 weeks of treatment, 90 percent of those patients experience total, or almost total, clearing of acne breakouts. In some cases, patients find that their acne recurs after stopping the use of Accutane. The dermatologist may suggest another 15 to 20 week period of Accutane use, or may prescribe other medicines. The use of Accutane can also have quite a significant downside. In pregnant women, isotretinoin can cause birth defects in any developing fetus. Women of childbearing age with cystic acne should be absolutely sure they are not pregnant and do not get pregnant while taking Accutane. Two separate effective forms of birth control should be used at the same time for a full month before treatment begins, during the entire course of treatment, and for another full month after stopping the drug. Even after the month has passed post-treatment, a woman should always ask her doctor when it is safe to get pregnant after they have stopped taking Accutane. Accutane can have some psychological effects as well. Cystic acne sufferers may become depressed by their appearance, and the blemished state of their skin. Medicines like Accutane can actually intensify any existing depression, either during treatment or immediately following the prescribed course of the drug. If a person appears unusually sad or has other symptoms such as loss of appetite or trouble concentrating, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Other possible side effects include dry eyes, mouth, lips, nose, or skin; itching; nosebleeds; muscle aches; sensitivity to the sun; and, sometimes, poor night vision. Accutane can also increase blood triglycerides and cholesterol, or affect liver function. Side effects usually go away after the medicine is stopped. People with cystic acne often turn to Accutane for relief from a very upsetting condition. As long as they’re aware of some of its drawbacks and are vigilant about any physical or psychological symptoms, Accutane treatment can turn into a positive healing experience. Articles on Cystic Acne: |
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