Because Expericence Matters

Accutane

The powerful acne medication Accutane continues to render tremendous controversy regarding its serious side affects. Accutane (isotretinoin) is approved to treat people who suffer from severe acne. While an effective approach to a sometimes embarrassing and troublesome skin condition, Accutane can cause serious and potentially life-threatening side effects.

After Accutane was approved for general use, the FDA informed maker Hoffman-LaRoche that the drug needed to include a warning about the potential threat of severe depression caused by Accutane. Several parents of teen Accutane patients claimed they had seen noticeable signs of depression in their children and argued they had not been adequately warned of the detrimental side effects of Accutane.

Congressman Bart Stupak expressed his concerns regarding the dangers Accutane after his teenage son committed suicide while on the medication. Since 1982, there have been 142 cases of possible Accutane related suicides, prompting the FDA to require a lengthy consent form to assure patients are aware of these risks before taking this medication. Despite these undeniable risks, Hoffman-LaRoche claims that Accutane has not been directly linked to teen suicides and, thus, does not pose an increased risk. The suicide death toll, however, continues to climb among Accutane users.

Accutane labeling cautions consumers about serious adverse psychological events, which can be caused by this acne medication. Depression, psychosis, suicidal thoughts and behaviors, and aggressive or violent behaviors are all possible Accutane side effects.

In addition to these serious Accutane risks, this medication can cause severe birth defects. The threat of Accutane birth defects is so great that all drug labeling is required to include a five page Accutane black box warning explaining these risks and how to avoid serious adverse events. The FDA implemented a compulsory pregnancy prevention program, iPledge, to prevent women who are taking Accutane from becoming pregnant and keep women who are pregnant from using Accutane. Studies show, however, that even with new safety procedures, many doctors do not follow these precautions when prescribing Accutane.

In addition to the adverse side effects of depression, suicide, and severe birth defects, Accutane also presents many other risks. Accutane has been linked to brain, abdomen, bone and muscle problems, sensory deficiencies, cholesterol issues and serious allergies.

The staggering side effects of Accutane are certainly cause for concern. Consequences of this powerful drug may be life threatening. If you or someone you know is suffering from possible Accutane induced health complications, please contact our qualified and experienced attorneys for a free consultation. You may be entitled to receive compensation for your losses and suffering.

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