Accutane

  I am a 25-year-old male who took a course of accutane about 7 years ago with numerous side effects.  The results were remarkable however.  My acne cleared up completely.  REcently, my acne is returning and I would like to take another course of accutane.  But I would like to know what the known effects of accutane are on the liver.  My grandfather died of liver cancer, and I was a heavy drinker in college.  I no longer drink, but my family history of liver cancer concerns me, although i really would like to go on this medication again.  Can you please inform me on the risks to your liver?
  Thank you.
Dear Todd,
Several cases of clinical hepatitis (inflammation of the liver) have been noted which are considered to be possibly or probably
related to Accutane therapy. Additionally, mild to moderate elevations in liver enzymes have been observed in approximately
15 percent of individuals treated during clinical trials, some of which normalized with dosage reduction or continued
administration of the drug. If normalization does not readily occuror if hepatitis is suspected during treatment with Accutane, the
drug should be discontinued. It should also be noted that Accutane is chemically related to vitamin A. Excess doses of vitamin
A can cause liver damage.Alcohol and excess vitamin A and beta carotene should be avoided during Accutane therapy. I hope
you find this information helpful.
This response is being provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or
consultation. Always check with your personal physician when you have a question pertaining to your health.
If you wish to be seen at our institution please call 1-800-653-6568, our Referring Physicians' Office and make an
appointment to see Dr. Muszkat, one of our experts in Gastroenterology.
HFHSM.D.-ym
*Keywords: hepatitis, Accutane