Accutane, the trade name for the drug Isotretinoin, is a powerful prescription drug used for the treatment of severe recalcitrant nodular acne and other serious skin disorders. Isotretinoin has also been used to treat some forms of cancer. Accutane carries a host of possible side effects, most notably depression, anxiety, dryness of the eyes and skin, weakening of the bones, headaches, stomach pain and seizures. Pregnant women, or women who may become pregnant, were strongly advised to avoid the use of Accutane due to a risk of loss of pregnancy or birth defect. One of the most serious side effects of Accutane is the development of the inflammatory bowel diseases, Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease. Yet, the manufacturer failed to properly warn of this serious hidden risk.

Ulcerative Colitis is an inflammatory disease that produces ulcers along the lining of the rectum and colon. Bleeding, pus-producing ulcers form where inflammation has killed off the cells lining the colon, causing sharp abdominal pain and fatigue. The inflammation of the colon causes frequent diarrhea and rectal bleeding. Crohn's disease is an inflammatory disease that can cause inflammation anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract, from the anus to the mouth. The primary intestinal symptoms of Crohn's disease are painful abdominal cramps and frequent diarrhea. The extra-intestinal symptoms of Crohn's disease range anywhere from fever and fatigue to the development of ulcers caused by necrosis of the skin. The exacerbation of both diseases may necessitate the removal of the colon.

While Accutane has been pulled from the US market by its manufacturer Hoffman-LaRoche Inc., the generic form of Isotretinoin is still sold by other companies. Those who have taken Accutane in the past are still susceptible to side effects and should contact their doctor or legal advisor.

If you believe you or a loved one has been injured as a result of taking Accutane, please contact us by filling out our online contact form, or call our office for a complementary consultation.

We have been representing victims of defective devices nationwide for over 27 years and have the resources and expertise to hold manufacturers accountable.