What are the Worst Side Effects of Accutane?

Many online sources have conflicting information about Accutane, which can leave people feeling uncertain and overwhelmed about this medication.

And while Accutane has the potential to cause various side effects, ranging from skin dryness to headaches and potential mental health issues, there are ways to manage these symptoms by understanding them better.

Therefore, in this article, I will delve deep into the complexities of this medication, specifically focusing on the worst side effects of Accutane and offering a comprehensive understanding for those considering this treatment.

I will explore not just the physical implications but also the psychological aspects and provide a balanced view based on various studies and medical insights.

So, whether you’re weighing the decision to start Accutane or seeking more information about its impact, this guide aims to equip you with a thorough understanding of the risks involved, balanced against the transformative benefits it can bring.

What is Accutane?

Accutane is a brand name for the medication isotretinoin, known for its use in treating severe acne that hasn’t responded to over-the-counter treatments.

It belongs to a class of medications called retinoids, which are derived from vitamin A.

Accutane works by targeting the oil glands in the skin and reducing their size and activity.

This leads to less oil production and fewer acne breakouts, as excess oil is often a contributing factor to acne.

But besides depleting the skin’s natural oil production, Accutane also helps remodel the skin’s texture and tone, making it a powerful ally against not only acne but also the scarring it can leave behind.

Typically, a course of Accutane treatment can last four to six months, during which the user will be under strict medical supervision.

Additionally, not everyone gets prescribed the same Accutane dose, and the strength you receive will depend on several factors, including your body weight, the severity of your acne, and your general lifestyle.

This is done so that the medication can produce the fastest possible results with the minimum adverse effects.

This level of oversight is crucial due to the medication’s potency and range of potential side effects, which we will delve into in the following sections.

The Common Side Effects of Accutane

When considering Accutane for acne treatment, it’s important to be aware of its common side effects.

These effects are typically mild and manageable, but they play a crucial role in the treatment process.

While these side effects are common, they’re typically mild and can be effectively managed with the right skincare routine.

Protective measures, such as applying high SPF, using eyedrops and artificial tears for dry eyes, keeping the inside of the nose moist with a saline spray, and using lip balm regularly.

Exploring the Serious Side Effects of Accutane

Besides the common side effects experienced in moderation by most Accutane users, this medication has the potential to cause more severe side effects.

Therefore, it’s essential to explore these with a balanced perspective, considering both the potential risks and the context provided by various studies.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Accutane has been associated with gastrointestinal problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), due to its effect on the intestinal lining.

Accutane has been found to increase the permeability of the gut wall, potentially allowing bacteria and toxins to enter more easily and trigger an immune response.

Another theory suggests that Accutane may disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to inflammation and other gastrointestinal issues.

The symptoms of gastrointestinal issues caused by Accutane may include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and nausea.

However, while some studies suggest a correlation, others find no significant link.

Therefore, if you have a history of gastrointestinal disorders, you should discuss potential risks thoroughly with your doctors, as your prior conditions will likely determine whether you can safely take Accutane.

Liver Damage

Accutane’s influence on liver function is another serious consideration, as this medication can potentially lead to liver damage.

This is because Accutane is processed through the liver, and in doing so, it can elevate liver enzymes, a sign of liver stress or damage.

In some cases, this increased load of vitamin A can lead to inflammation or liver damage, especially if there are pre-existing liver conditions or if other liver-stressing substances, like alcohol, are consumed alongside Accutane. 

Joint and Bone Issues

Long-term use of Accutane has been linked to skeletal side effects like joint pain and, in rare cases, bone density changes.

This happens because, as Accutane shrinks the sebaceous glands and decreases their oil production, it also reduces the lubrication in joints, causing them to rub against each other and cause discomfort.

However, the results of various studies exploring this link have been inconclusive so far.

Although joint and bone issues are particularly concerning for young users whose bones are still developing, no conclusive study has proved a direct cause-and-effect relationship between Accutane and these side effects.

Therefore, while this is a potential risk, it should not be considered a definitive consequence of taking Accutane.

Vision and Hearing Impairments

Accutane has also been associated with vision and hearing impairments in some cases.

In terms of vision, the medication has been linked to causing visual disturbances such as blurriness, double vision, and a decreased ability to see in the dark.

Accutane can also cause dry eyes, which can be uncomfortable and, if not addressed, lead to more significant issues such as conjunctivitis and discomfort.

When it comes to hearing, Accutane has been linked to tinnitus, a condition characterized by a constant ringing or buzzing noise in the ears.

The exact reason for this isn’t fully understood; however, some studies have suggested that Accutane may induce nerve conduction alteration and subclinical changes in auditory brainstem response, which may lead to malfunctions in the auditory nerve fibers.

However, such side effects have been shown to be relatively rare and most resolve after discontinuing the medication.

Nonetheless, it’s crucial to monitor any changes in vision or hearing while on Accutane and report them to a healthcare professional immediately.

Mental Health Impacts

One of the most debated side effects of Accutane is its impact on mental health, particularly concerning depression.

This is also one of the most divisive topics when it comes to Accutane, with studies finding conflicting results.

While some studies suggest that Accutane users may be at an increased risk of developing depression and other mental health issues, others find no significant link between the two.

However, there are some theories as to why Accutane may increase the likelihood of developing or exacerbating current mental health issues for some people.

One of the main theories as to why Accutane can cause mental health issues for some people is due to vitamin A toxicity.

Accutane is a potent form of vitamin A, and excessive amounts of this nutrient have been associated with symptoms such as headaches and lethargy, which could exacerbate mental health issues.

However, other studies indicate that Accutane may be beneficial for the mental health of some users, as the relief from severe acne symptoms has been found to significantly improve the quality of life and mental well-being of those who have dealt with this condition for a long time before getting treatment.

Therefore, with many being mainly concerned with this particular Accutane side effect, it’s important to consider individual factors, including medical history and lifestyle, before deciding whether or not to take this medication.

Additionally, any changes in mood or symptoms of depression after starting Accutane should be closely monitored and reported to a doctor immediately.

This potential side effect is certainly something to keep in mind, but it should not deter you from exploring the option of Accutane for severe acne treatment.

Teratogenic Effect

Accutane is highly teratogenic, meaning it can cause severe birth defects if used during pregnancy.

This risk is well-documented and indisputable and has led to stringent guidelines and programs like iPledge to prevent pregnancy during treatment.

The reason behind this is that Accutane, due to being a potent dose of vitamin A, can interfere with the development of a fetus, leading to physical abnormalities and other serious health issues, such as visual and hearing impairments, which is one of the main documented side effects in babies exposed to Accutane while in the womb.

Therefore, if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the near future, Accutane is not an option for you.

However, it’s essential to note that this risk only applies while taking Accutane, and once your treatment is complete and the drug is out of your system, you can safely become pregnant 3-6 months post-Accutane.

It’s also important to note that this side effect only applies to women taking Accutane and that there is no known risk for men exposed to the medication fathering children with birth defects.

Managing and Mitigating the Risks of Accutane

Navigating the journey with Accutane requires an understanding of how to manage and mitigate its potential risks.

By taking proactive steps, you can effectively handle the side effects while benefiting from the medication’s acne-treating properties.

Here are a few ways to manage and mitigate the risks of Accutane:

Regular Medical Supervision

Consistent check-ins with a healthcare provider are paramount while on Accutane.

These regular appointments allow for monitoring any emerging side effects and adjusting the treatment plan as needed.

Blood tests may also be conducted to assess the impact on liver function and cholesterol levels and prevent long-term issues, such as liver damage.

Skincare Adjustments

Adapting your skincare routine can significantly ease side effects like dryness and irritation.

Incorporating gentle, non-comedogenic moisturizers and lip balms, using mild cleansers, and avoiding skin products with alcohol or other drying and irritating agents can be beneficial while your skin is vulnerable due to Accutane.

Sun Protection

Given Accutane’s tendency to increase sun sensitivity, diligent sun protection is crucial.

This includes using broad-spectrum sunscreens, wearing protective clothing, and minimizing sun exposure, especially during peak heat hours.

Hydration and Diet

Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can aid in overall health and counteract some side effects.

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help with dry skin while avoiding alcohol can reduce the risk of liver strain.

Additionally, incorporating supplements such as magnesium and vitamin C into your daily routine can help support your body during Accutane by promoting quality sleep and lowering stress and anxiety, which is why it’s preferred by people looking to improve their mental health while taking this medication.

Mental Health Awareness

Being mindful of mental health changes and having open communication with healthcare providers and support networks is essential.

This ensures any signs of mood changes or depression are addressed promptly.

Pregnancy Prevention

For women of childbearing age, strict adherence to pregnancy prevention is non-negotiable due to the high risk of birth defects.

Programs like iPledge are in place to ensure safe and responsible use of the medication in this regard.