Table of contents:
- What is Roaccutane?
- Supervision of the use of the acne drug Roaccutane
- Who should not use Roaccutane?
- Roaccutane side effects
- Things to consider when using Roaccutane
The acne problem never ends. Many people are willing to do various ways to keep their skin free from acne. In addition to using doctor creams, doctor acne medications, such as Roaccutane, are a popular choice. Check out the following explanation of the acne drug Roaccutane.
What is Roaccutane?
Roaccutane is a brand of medicine that contains the active ingredient isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is a vitamin A derivative that is commonly used in the treatment of severe acne, such as nodular and cystic acne (cystic acne).
This active ingredient can treat acne problems by suppressing the production of oil glands and reducing keratin in the skin. This drug is also recommended by doctors as a treatment for skin problems, such as rosacea or hidradenitis suppurativa.
Keep in mind that Roaccutane is a strong acne remedy. Doctors will give this drug as a last resort if various acne therapies cannot solve your problem.
This is because this acne drug has a number of side effects that should not be underestimated. Not only limited to the skin on the face, the active ingredients of Roaccutane can affect all organs of the body.
Supervision of the use of the acne drug Roaccutane
In fact, the use of isotretinoin must be watched closely, especially in the United States. The government supervises the distribution of this drug on the condition that it must register in a program related to the use of isotretinoin.
In addition, patients must undergo regular laboratory tests, both before and after using Roaccutane as an acne medication. This is especially true for women to prevent unwanted side effects.
In Indonesia, the same regulations are enforced. This medicine must be used with the right indications and under close supervision by a doctor.
Normally, doctors will give this drug at the lowest dose. Then, the doctor will monitor the patient's use periodically. One period of taking medication is usually around 4 - 6 months.
Who should not use Roaccutane?
Roaccutane is a drinking acne medication that is only intended for patients with severe acne. Meanwhile, there are several categories of people who are not recommended to drink Roaccutane, namely:
- pregnant and nursing mothers,
- have digestive problems,
- hepatitis patients,
- diabetics, and
- have high triglyceride levels.
Basically, only a doctor can determine whether or not someone should take the acne drug Roaccutane. Before prescribing this medication, your doctor will examine the type of acne and your medical history thoroughly.
Roaccutane side effects
As mentioned earlier, Roaccutane is a fairly strong acne medication because it can cause various side effects. This side effect can appear if its use is not properly monitored.
For example, this drug can decrease the production of oil and keratin in the skin. As a result, facial skin becomes very dry and more sensitive. This also affects the lips which also become chapped and bleed easily.
In fact, your eyes may even feel dry. This dryness in the eyes can lead to serious problems, such as blepharitis, conjunctivitis, and eye irritation.
Meanwhile, Roaccutane can also increase the transaminase enzyme which causes disorders in various organs, such as:
- liver,
- joints,
- muscles, and
- back.
Not only that, Roaccutane can increase triglyceride levels in the blood and risk irritating the digestive tract.
The use of this acne drug is also said to reduce sexual desire, resulting in erectile dysfunction. In addition, the teratogenic (poison) nature of Roaccutane can also cause defects in the fetus if taken carelessly.
Therefore, women of childbearing age who drink Roaccutane will receive close supervision by a doctor.
Things to consider when using Roaccutane
It should be underlined that the acne drug Roaccutane must be prescribed by a doctor. Use that is not as recommended by a doctor is certainly at risk of causing serious side effects.
Although classified as hard drugs, Roaccutane can easily be found on online buying and selling sites. This is very unsettling because it is included in the circulation of illegal drugs.
That is why, always ensure the benefits and risks of a drug before consumption or use. If you have further questions, ask a dermatologist for the right solution.
So, before taking this drug, make sure you know all the benefits and risks. Don't hesitate to ask a dermatologist about the side effects of this drug.
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