Accutane

The drug Accutane has generated controversy ever since it hit the market. The drug has been associated with symptoms of depression and suicidal thoughts among users, as well as birth defects and miscarriages. Most recently, Accutane has been pulled from the market after new allegations that the drug increases the risk of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

IBD is a chronic inflammation disorder of the small or large intestine and includes Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's Disease – both of which can be treated but cannot be cured. Symptoms of IBD include severe abdominal cramps, diarrhea, blood in stool, nausea and vomiting.

Diagnosis often requires many physician and hospital visits while the treatment involves trying many different prescription medications until an effective one is identified. If the disease is not treated properly, bowel function gradually deteriorates, and the risk of developing colon cancer later in life can significantly increase. The medical costs and time lost from school and work can also become significant.

Accutane Patient Warning Information

The patient information for Accutane includes the following warning:

• Stomach area (abdomen) problems. Certain symptoms may mean that your internal organs are being damaged. These organs include the liver, pancreas, bowel (intestines), and esophagus (connection between mouth and stomach). If your organs are damaged, they may not get better even after you stop taking Accutane. Stop taking Accutane and call your doctor if you get:
• Severe stomach, chest or bowel pain
• Trouble swallowing or painful swallowing
• New or worsening heartburn
• Diarrhea
• Rectal bleeding
• Yellowing of your skin or eyesl
• Dark urine.

Accutane is no longer available in the United States since Hoffmann-LaRoche announced that it was removing the drug from the U.S. market in 2009, citing increased competition from other generic acne medications and the growing cost of defending lawsuits.