Has Accutane Caused Your Intestinal Problems?
“Three years ago, I started taking Accutane for my acne. Although the Accutane seemed to work, I soon developed severe pain in my bowels, and had constant diarrhea and a bleeding rectum. Even though I’ve discontinued using the Accutane, I still have these problems. I saw my doctor and he says I may have Crohn’s disease and that Accutane can cause it. He says that if the case is severe enough, surgery might be necessary.”
Many teenagers and young adults are familiar with Accutane, a popular acne drug marketed and sold by Hoffman-LaRoche (also known as Roche Pharmaceuticals). Over 5 million teenagers and young adults have used Accutane since it was introduced in 1982.
Over the years, the Food and Drug Administration has required Roche to change its labeling to warn of the severe intestinal disorders associated with this powerful drug. After a series of successful lawsuits by those harmed by Accutane, Roche discontinued the manufacture and sales of Accutane in June 2009.
Accutane has been linked to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which causes inflammation and ulceration of the digestive tract, including the stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. IBD can attack the large intestine alone, a condition called Ulcerative Colitis, or any other part of the digestive tract, which is commonly referred to as Crohn’s Disease
If you or a loved one have stopped using Accutane within the past five years and are experiencing any difficulty or pain with your intestinal system, you need to speak with Craig Swapp & Associates today. Protect your rights. Call now (800-404-9000) and speak with our knowledgeable Accutane attorneys. Our consultation is free and you are under no obligation.
What is Accutane?
Accutane (generic name isotretinoin) is a powerful drug prescribed to treat the most severe forms of acne, such as cystic or nodular acne. These forms of acne can result in many swollen, red bumps on the skin that may cause significant physical pain and scarring if not properly treated. Due to the significant negative side effects of Accutane, the drug is normally used as a last resort when other forms of acne treatment (including over-the-counter products or prescription antibiotics) have not been successful in treating the acne.
Intestinal Side Effects
Over the years, the powerful drug Accutane has been linked to serious intestinal disorders, which can be extremely painful and may endanger your health. Unfortunately, these episodes can last for long periods of time, and often reoccur time and time again. Three intestinal disorders are usually associated with Accutane: Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Crohn’s Disease, and Ulcerative Colitis.
Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) is where the intestines become swollen and inflamed. Common symptoms of IBD can include:
- Severe stomach or bowel pain
- Abdominal cramping
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Severe heartburn
- Bleeding from the intestines or rectum
- Trouble swallowing or painful swallowing
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Dark urine
- Unusual weight loss
A serious IBD complication is the development of Crohn’s Disease where open sores (or ulcers) develop in the entire length of the large and small intestines. Crohn’s Disease is characterized by inflammation or swelling around the rectum, in addition to the symptoms listed above.
Another related IBD problem is Ulcerative Colitis which causes the formation of painful ulcers in the large intestine and rectum.
Treatment Options for IBD
If you suspect that you have Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), your doctor will examine your intestinal track using a signmoldoscope or colonoscope. He or she will look for any signs of IBD such as inflammation, swelling, redness, ulcers, and bleeding. He will also test for the presence of germs and blood.
Mild forms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease may be treated with antibiotics or corticosteroids. More severe cases of IBD may require hospitalization for intravenous treatments and the use of immuno-suppressants. In cases where the IBD has irreversibly damaged the intestinal tract, doctors may need to remove the colon surgically.
Accutane Litigation
Currently litigation is underway representing individuals who have:
- Stopped taking Accutane within the past five years
- Developed symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) while taking Accutane or after discontinuing the use of Accutane
- Diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis
- Had intestinal surgery or the colon removed due to a severe case of IBD
If two or more of the above criteria describes your situation, you need to speak with Craig Swapp & Associates today. Protect your rights. Call now and speak with our knowledgeable Accutane attorneys. Our consultation is free and you are under no obligation.
Craig Swapp & Associates
1-800-404-9000
Or contact us using our convenient online submission form.
