The American Osteopathic College of Dermatology said Accutane is a powerful medication used to treat severe cystic acne.
According to a 2003 report Accutane’s basic component is the drug isotretinoin, which is a derivative of vitamin A.
Accutane’s leaflet, written by Roche, the pharmaceutical company that created it, said it is used when standard treatments for severe acne are not effective.
However, Accutane can lead to serious side effects. Health Canada was cited in a 2003 report that 25 per cent of users experienced psychiatric effects such as depression and suicidal thoughts since the release of the drug in 1983.
The American Academy of Dermatology reported there are also severe physical side effects from Accutane usage, such as birth defects, joint pain, unhealthy cholesterol levels, stomach issues and liver damage.
According to Lutfi Al-Kathiri’s report 85 per cent of teenagers are affected as it is a common skin disorder. This experience creates a negative psychosocial impact.
The piktochart offers tips to help cure cystic acne without resorting to Accutane.