October issue of Elle is talking about Accutane. We all know it is used for Cystic Acne and Hollywood is using it wildly.

But... according to the article in Elle magazine it may be a wonder drug for certain cases of cancer.

It states: "Accutane has been shown to make the abnormal cells behave like normal ones." It also says doctors are using it to treat other skin conditions such as: rosacea, psoriasis, and even leukemia and skin cancer.

Accutane's real claim to fame, however, may lie in its ability to effectively help treat certain cancers. Some doctors have recently started prescribing the drug for mild, non-melanoma forms of epidermal skin cancer--from basal cell nevus syndrome (an inherited type of basal cell cancer) to multiple keratoacanthoma (a slightly more serious squamous cells cancer).

As pharmaceutical companies work to develop new retinoid compounds, the hope is that they might one day be able to prevent cancer in high-risk individuals. But, koeffler warns, there is not evidence yet to support that theory and Accutane should never be used by the public to try to prevent cancer.

For the full story pick up the book or try www.elle.com I don't know if this story will be on the web site, as I have not tried it. Go read the whole story, it is very interesting.

Is this the same drug that experts claim makes teenagers suicidal?

Yes this is the same drug that made news for being the drug that made kids more apt to be suicidal, I used to be on this drug, it is very strong and there is a lot of side effects, the worst for me was the horrible drying effects especially to your lips. Uugh! and to think that I may have to repeat this to get rid of reoccuring acne.

Christina

I didn't see anything on that part of the side effects.. geez

I have taken this before, too, and although it cleared my skin,I,too had the extreme drying, not to mention some really NASTY side effects, such as mild depression and rectal bleeding(sorry!).Don't mean to gross ya out, but that's what happened with me!)

I was on this stuff too, a while ago...

I had really bad nose bleeds....they were bad!

I think it was because the drug is extremely drying to the skin and mucous membranes.


Melty
AkA
Chris

This is not a perscription I like at all..
Remember you can not wax someone if they are on this perscription.. they can scare badly from it.. even if there was no burn involved int he procedure..
Loss of hair in females I believe is another side effect...

Yes.. depression is a key side effect and also can harm the eye sight..
After you get off the drug it takes near two years to get out of the system..
No I do not like this drug one bit.. I don't care how great the skin looks after using it.. Think of the risks involved when using it..

Thanks for this post Mitzi..

_________________
Christine'
"That's right, it is time for the anti-tanning segment of the dermatology community and their comrades to "throw in the towel" and admit defeat!"Don Smith
Don't Miss Don In Action[ This Message was edited by: fungirlz on 2002-09-18 21:18 ]

The funny thing is, after all the fears....my skin is not 100 percent PURFECT!!!!!!

Melty
AkA
Chris

you are one of the lucky ones who can use this with out the side effects right?? think of others out there Chris who can't say the same..
C

Wow, see I didn't know about all this controversy on this drug. So glad I open that book and found this topic. Thanks for all the imput.

If you get a chance read the artical in full. I only took part of it and posted.

angeleyes
Brand New Talker


Posted: 9/18/02 10:34a
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I have taken this before, too, and although it cleared my skin,I,too had the extreme drying, not to mention some really NASTY side effects, such as mild depression and rectal bleeding(sorry!).Don't mean to gross ya out, but that's what happened with me!)



You didn't gross us out.. this is what happend to you..
it was a very very serious side effect to this drug..
It is good you shared with us this..

Please join in with us often..
We need this information...

Welcome to our wonderful Skin Care World..

C

Thanks! I have learned so much from you !I usually just sit back and absorb the info, but I just had to share my experience with you because I wouldn't want anyone to try this drug without knowing the possible consequences.It is a very controversial drug, with good reason....thanks again for making me feel at home, and keep up with the great job you've been doing here!!

Well unfortunatley like I had expected, I am put back on Accutane. Hopefully 2nd times a charm. I am concerned about the second time around because now I deal with long term side effects of the drug, like joint/bone discomfort, that doesn't sound so fun. And I absolutely HATE the drying effect of this drug, my poor, poor lips Well I will keep you all updated on my progress and side effects, hopefully this is my last time! My doctor said that it is very rare for people to have to do another dosage, that 85-90% are cured the first time around, sucks to be me!
Wish me Luck!
Christina

Be sure you let us know how you are doing Christina..
Please drink plenty of water to flush your body out..
We are hoping this goes alright for you..
C

I have been on Accutane twice. Yes it drys your skin out and severe chapped lips, but to me it has been worth it.

is there anything else you can use that doesnt havve those kind of side effects??? Just wondering, because my face breaks out but its never bad enough to suffer through those side effects.

is there anything else you can use that doesnt havve those kind of side effects??? Just wondering, because my face breaks out but its never bad enough to suffer through those side effects. I found this on a search, whould any of you try it??? http://www.acuzine.com/free/

Accutane side effects may include:

Conjunctivitis (``pinkeye''), dry or fragile skin, dry or cracked lips, dry mouth, dry nose, itching, joint pains, nosebleed:
Bowel inflammation and pain, chest pain, decreased night vision, decreased tolerance to contact lenses, delay in wound healing, depression, fatigue, headache, nausea, peeling palms or soles, rash, skin infections, stomach and intestinal discomfort, sunburn-sensitive skin, thinning hair, urinary discomfort, vision problems, vomiting

Some people taking Accutane, including some who simultaneously took tetracycline, have experienced headache, nausea, and visual disturbances caused by increased pressure within the skull. See a doctor immediately if you have these symptoms; if the doctor finds swelling of the optic nerve at the back of your eye, you must stop taking Accutane at once and see a neurologist for further care.

Some people have experienced a sudden decrease in night vision.

Some people taking Accutane have had problems regulating their blood sugar level.

some people may not be able to tolerate contact lenses during and after therapy with Accutane.

Accutane should be immediately stopped if you have abdominal pain, bleeding from the rectum, or severe diarrhea. You may have an inflammatory disease of the bowel.

You should not donate blood during your therapy with Accutane and for a month after you stop taking it.

Because Accutane can cause severe birth defects, including mental retardation and physical malformations, a woman must not become pregnant while taking it. If you are a woman of childbearing age, your doctor will ask you to sign a detailed consent form before you start taking Accutane. If you accidentally become pregnant while taking the medication, you should immediately consult your doctor.

Isotretinoin (marketed as Accutane) Capsule

FDA ALERT [05/2005]
FDA continues to assess reports of suicide or suicide attempts associated with the use of isotretinoin. All patients treated with isotretinoin should be observed closely for symptoms of depression or suicidal thoughts, such as sad mood, irritability, anger, loss of pleasure or interest in social or sports activities, sleeping too much or too little, changes in weight or appetite, school or work performance going down, or trouble concentrating. If the patient becomes irritable, anxious, has other symptoms of depression or has thoughts of suicide, they or their caregiver should contact their healthcare professional right away.

http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/infopage/accutane/accutane-qa20041123.htm

For those of you looking for a product that will help clear up most skin problems without any side effects you need to check out Amino Genesis http://www.aminogenesis.com

I know most of you with serious skin problems will be very skeptical to try just a skin care line but this stuff actually works. We have just started carrying this product in the last few months and I have heard so many amazing stories from my clients. I have had people with terrible Psoriasis who have never worn shorts and been on medication for most of their lives try this product and are now completely clear and off medication. I have also had people who have severe acne see a dramatic improvement to not only their skin but their scarring as well.

Take my word check out the site and look for a retailer near you and spend the $60 - $70 (not 100% sure on US prices) and try at least the Cleanser and Daily Moisturizer.

I know this sounds like a shopping channel infomercial but this stuff really really works.

_________________
[ This Message was edited by: canadiantanguy on 2005-07-08 08:30 ]

OK what is wrong hear?.... major side effects, FDA alert, “ reports of suicide or suicide attempts”, birth defects, including mental retardation and physical malformations.

But Doctors will still Prescribe this drug.. and recommend not to tan?

~shrug~

Hey jennymae!

Boomer sooner! I am so excited when I see a fellow sooner on a board, especially female. I just found this board last night.

Have you ever tried Clear Advantage from Arbonne? I know a lot of people who have had success with it. Some who have even had to go on Accutane before, which is a horrible drug, but are cleared up now. Since I am new to the board & this is only my second post I don't want to seem like I am spamming or anything. But if you would be interested in hearing more just shoot me a PM.

48 days until Sooner football!!

Try to find a skincare specialist who deals with acne. I treat people everyday with acne with great results. There are enzyme peels, glycolic peels and use of galvanic current really helps. If you are able find a esthetician in your area and go see him/her. They will teach you how to care for your skin, take a look at your DIET and give you a full consultation. You may want to look for a happy acne light usually costs $200. You sit under it for 20 Min each day. Utilizes Blue Light kills acne, and a red light for inflammation. If you can tell me where you live I maybe able to recommend someone in your area. ALSO remember you CANNOT tan with accutane this perscription should be used only when nothing else helps it is a very serious drug and I don't recommend it. If your a girl talk to your doctor about using birth control(yasmine) seen many good results using it.
Good luck, I know it is emotionally hard dealing with acne.

im wondering about rectal bleeding, it does mean there is something wrong with your organs does? its possible because since accutane drys out all the mucous membranes that its just because everything is dry and it cracks and ends up bleeding because this is my 2nd time on it and i had this side affect the 1st time and when i went off it the bleeding stopped completely now its back cause im on it again

listen go to the DOCTOR!!!!

I agree 100% with Coconut go see your doctor.

Re: Accutane--- Wonder Drug???
 

I was on Accutane too and it works great. I got nosebleeds every so often as well as died lips,skin,and even eyes. The thing I hated most was that I had to stop tanning while on it:(