Accutane is a type of Vitamin A that helps the skin renew itself faster and also helps in controlling the secretion of oil from the skin. It is effective in the treatment of acne.
How does it work
Accutane works by preventing the virus from multiplying in the body. This allows the medication to eliminate the pending virus.
Taking Accutane & the right dosage
Accutane may be taken with or without a meal.
The extended release pill should not be crushed or chewed. It must be swallowed whole.
Treatment must be started as soon as the first symptoms of herpes start to appear. For example, tingling, burning, blisters etc.
Storage
Store Accutane in a cool and dark place at room temperature. Do not store it in a place where it can get exposed to direct sunlight or moisture.
Keep it away from children and pets.
Safety Information/ Warning Precautions
Before using Accutane, you should consult a physician and discuss about your medical history.
Accutane may not be suitable for you if:
You have HIV/AIDS
You have a weak immune system
You have kidney disease (or if you are on dialysis)
You have had a kidney or bone marrow transplant
Other Information
Accutane does not prevent the spread of the virus. Herpes is contagious and you may infect the people you come into contact with even if you are using Accutane.
Drug Interactions
Accutane may interact with some medications. So if you are using any prescription, non prescription, OTC medicines or dietary supplements, then inform your physician in advance before you use Accutane.
Pregnancy Information
Accutane is not known to be harmful to an unborn baby. But inform your doctor if you plan to become pregnant or are pregnant and are infected with the herpes virus. You should ensure that you do not have any genital lesions.
Accutane may be passed on to the baby if you are breast feeding. Please speak to your doctor about the potential risks of breast feeding while using Accutane.
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Accutane are:
Nausea, stomach pain, headache, dizziness, tired feeling, depression, joint pain, menstrual pain, mild skin rash, or stuffy nose, sore throat.
These side effects usually subside by themselves in sometime as the body gets used to Accutane.
Some uncommon but potentially dangerous side effects are:
Diarrhea that is watery or bloody, fever, swollen gums, painful mouth sores, pain when swallowing, skin sores, cold or flu symptoms, cough, trouble breathing, swollen glands, rash or itching, joint pain, or general ill feeling, pale or yellowed skin, yellowing of the eyes, dark colored urine, fever, confusion or weakness, severe tingling, numbness, pain, muscle weakness, easy bruising, unusual bleeding (nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum), purple or red pinpoint spots under your skin, or severe skin reaction--fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes, skin pain, followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads (especially in the face or upper body) and causes blistering and peeling.
You should see a doctor immediately if one of these side effects occur.