Although I also know that Accutane is effective and have seen good results, not every side effect was positive. And this is enough for me to steer clear of Accutane and go with natural remedies first!
Accutane is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient isotretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A called a retinoid. This medication is indicated to reduce or eliminate the development of skin lesions associated with a severe form of acne called nodular acne. Accutane side effects in men are typically the same as those experienced by women, though women are also at risk of developing pregnancy or menstrual complications.
SKIN OR NAIL CHANGES Men taking Accutane may notice changes to their skin or nails. The skin across the body may appear unusually dry and can begin to peel, itch or crack, RxList reports. A man's fingernails or toenails may also appear dry or brittle and may break or crumble easily. The skin along a man's gum line may also appear irritated or inflamed and can begin to bleed.
DIZZINESS OR FATIGUE Unusual episodes of dizziness or lightheadedness may arise in men treated with Accutane. Affected men may appear unbalanced or unstable while standing or walking. Increased fatigue may also occur, leading to problems remaining focused or attentive during daily activities.
JOINT OR BODY PAIN Uncomfortable sensations of pain may develop throughout a man's joints or body during treatment with Accutane. These side effects may lead to increased weakness or fatigue in certain men, which can cause difficulty moving about normally.
FLULIKE SYMPTOMS Men receiving treatment with this medication may experience flu-like symptoms, including fever, body aches, chills, fatigue or diminished appetite, RxList reports. Affected patients should contact a doctor if these side effects occur, as these symptoms may also be indicative of an alternate medical problem, such as an infection.
MOOD CHANGES Abnormal mood changes can occur in men taking Accutane. Men who experience depression, hallucinations, aggressive behavior, difficulty concentrating, insomnia or suicidal thoughts during treatment with this medication require immediate medical care, RxList advises.
RESPIRATORY TRACT INFECTION Male patients taking Accutane may be at an increased risk of developing a respiratory tract infection as a side effect of treatment, warns the FDA. Symptoms of a respiratory tract infection include breathing difficulties, nasal dryness or congestion and chest discomfort. Men who develop a respiratory tract infection should contact a doctor as additional medication may be necessary to resolve infection symptoms.
HAIR THINNING The hair across a man's scalp may begin to appear unusually sparse or thin during Accutane treatment, Drugs.com reports. Such side effects are temporary and normal hair regrowth typically occurs once treatment with Accutane ends.
UPSET STOMACH The most common gastrointestinal complications include nausea, vomiting, heartburn and diarrhea, according to PDRhealth. Men who develop severe or persistent upset stomach symptoms, notice blood in their stools or vomit should consult a physician immediately.
