Roaccutane/Curatane (isotretinoin) treats severe acne that does not respond to other prescribed treatments, such as ointments, creams or antibiotics. Isotretinoin belongs to the group of drugs known as retinoids, which are Vitamin A derivatives.
This drug is available only under a special program called
iPLEDGE REMS (Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy.) This is a safety program to manage the risk of fetal exposure to isotretinoin. The US FDA requires the REMS to ensure the benefits of isotretinoin outweigh its risks. Women who are already pregnant or planning to become pregnant cannot be given isotretinoin, as it can cause severe, life-threatening birth defects. Women of childbearing potential must agree in writing to use two specific forms of birth control and have regular pregnancy tests before, during, and after taking isotretinoin.
Dosage
A dermatologist must supervise treatment with Curatane. The standard initial dosage is 0.5 mg per kg body weight per day. Swallow the capsules whole, on a full stomach, with some fluids or a small amount of food. The capsules can be taken once or twice each day, as per the doctor’s instructions.
Cautions:
- Skin may become more sensitive to sunlight. Avoid excessive exposure to the sun and use of tanning lamps and beds. If going out into the sun, use sunscreen with a high skin protection factor (SPF 15 or higher), a hat, and clothes that cover the arms and shoulders
- During treatment with Curatane and at least six months after completing treatment, abstain from all cosmetic treatments such as wax epilation, dermabrasion, and laser treatments. These treatments may cause scarring, skin irritation or even changes in skin color
- Do not donate blood during treatment with Curatane and for 30 days after completing
treatment. If a pregnant woman receives a transfusion containing isotretinoin, the baby may be born with birth defects
- Do not take vitamin supplements containing vitamin A while taking this drug.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.
Please take time to read the manufacturer’s Product Insert that comes with the medication. Not all side effects are listed here. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience these or other unexpected effects.
If a severe rash or the skin symptoms listed below are noticed, stop taking Curatane and consult the prescribing doctor immediately:
- Skin rashes (erythema multiforme, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, and toxic epidermal necrolysis) that first
appear as circular patches, often with central blisters, usually on the arms and hands or on the
legs and feet. The more severe rashes can also include blisters on the chest and back
- Eye infections (conjunctivitis)
- Ulcers in the mouth, throat or nose
- Rashes that develop into widespread peeling of the skin, which can be preceded by headache and flu-like symptoms.
Talk to a doctor or pharmacist if these or other unlisted symptoms persist or worsen.
Curetane (Roaccutane / Accutane) (isotretinoin) is indicated for the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne. Nodules are inflammatory lesions with a diameter of 5 mm or greater. The nodules may become suppurative or hemorrhagic. “Severe” by definition means many large, painful papules, pustules, nodules or cysts. There may also be some scarring.