Accutane (manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Roche) is a treatment that could be called “a shock” in the form of tablets to cure moderate to very severe acne, made of isotretinoin (vitamin A derivative), prescribed by the doctor. Unlike many topical or internal treatment with antibiotics that should be repeated after some time or frequently, it often seems more effective in the long term. The patients who take Accutane must generally respect the treatment for a minimum of 3 to 4 months. Subsequently, the doctor will assess the results and may or may not prescribe a second treatment of similar length. It is less common for a patient to use a third treatment. Because of its teratogenicity (prohibition of getting pregnant given the high risk of fetal deformities), patients are required to take the contraceptive pill. This will frequently be continued for 12 months after the completion of the treatment to avoid the risk of deformities that persists during this period. Accutane affects everyone in a different way and has several possible side effects:

• Cardiovascular problem;
• Digestive problem;
• Liver disorder;
• Risk of depression;
• Nosebleed;
• Dry skin and eyes;
• Bone and muscle problems

The following blood tests are usually required before and during the treatment

• Determination of serum lipids (cholesterol, triglycerides);
• Complete blood count (platelets, red blood cells and white blood cells);
• Liver function tests (liver enzymes);
• Blood glucose (sugar) especially in known or suspected diabetes cases.

Pregnancy tests: every month, the pregnancy test must be done because the risk of serious fetal deformities is extremely important. Blood donations: it is recommended not to donate blood during the treatment with Accutane or even after the first month following the discontinuation of the treatment. Cardiovascular system: sometimes there is an increase in triglycerides (fats in the blood), which is an energy reserve for the body. However, they may be harmful when they occur in excessive amounts in the blood. A blood test is used to find this rate. Accutane can increase this rate if the patient has diabetes mellitus, obesity, high alcohol consumption or a family history of hypertriglyceridemia. Diabetes: Diabetic patients who take Accutane can have difficulty in controlling their blood sugar levels. Digestive system: even in people without a history of intestinal disorders, there may be inflammatory bowel diseases. Hepatic, biliary and pancreatic functions: It is recommended to do tests of liver and pancreatic functions (liver, pancreas, gall bladder) regularly during the treatment. After the beginning of the treatment, the doctor who takes charge of the patient will give him/her a prescription to perform (usually monthly) certain laboratory tests. The patient may therefore turn to our company that will accompany him/her during the duration of the treatment with monthly (periodically) blood drawing. For further details, all you need to do is to contact us to answer your questions or to ask about the mobile service we offer to meet your medical requirements.