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Accutane Lawsuit 2009

Accutane was developed by manufacturer Hoffman-LaRoche, and designed to help cure acne as a synthetic form of Vitamin A. Accutane sales accounted for $1.2 billion in revenue to Hoffman-LaRoche annually. In 2009, the company ceased production of this medication citing the declining demand for it and the increased use of generic treatments.

Additional Names

Accutane has several names that it has been marketed under, including Amnesteem, Claravis, Decutan, Istane, Sotret, Ratane, Raccutane, Isotretinoin.

Uses of Accutane

Originally intended only for the treatment of severe cases of acne, dermatologists began prescribing it for milder cases. Use of this medication must be done with caution, as the risks must be weighed against the benefits. For some people taking the medication, the risks far outweighed the benefits and it should not have been prescribed.

How Accutane Works

Accutane works by blocking the growth and reproduction of oil glands and cells. While it is highly effective at curing acne within a few months, it does this by depleting molecules that help to hold in water. Not only does the patient’s skin become drier, curing acne, but the eyes, scalp and joints also lose necessary moisture and lubrication.

Side Effects of Accutane

The most obvious side effects include weak skin, Alopecia (hair loss and bald spots), back pain, joint pain, dry mucus membranes, dry eye and pink eye.

Other, more severe, side effects include: depression and suicidal thoughts, miscarriages or birth defects, vision problems and ringing in the ear, psychosis, liver damage, anaphylaxis (hypersensitivity to substances), allergic vasculitis (extreme allergic reaction), aggressive behavior, erectile dysfunction, bone loss and lowered white blood cell count, heart attack, seizures and stroke, inflammatory bowel disease (Including Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis).

Black Box Warnings

Currently, the FDA requires that a black box warning be included on all Accutane bottles and containers. This warning will alert potential customers of the serious risks associated with the medication. The effect of these warning labels is that if you choose to take the medication, despite the clearly stated warnings, you will not have any legal recourse against Hoffman-LaRoche. Cases brought against the company in New Jersey and the Federal Courts were both resolved in the company’s favor because of the black box warnings.

Taking Accutane When Pregnant

Female patients who could potentially be pregnant should understand the risks posed to their unborn children by taking Accutane. They must understand that by taking this medication they could suffer miscarriage or their child could have birth defects. Women who conceive while actively taking Accutane are advised to discontinue use of the drug immediately. In addition to discontinuing use of the medication, they should meet with a doctor who is experienced in reproductive toxicity. Women who took the medication before the black box warnings were added to the packaging, or where not adequately warned of the risks, would have a legitimate grievance and case against the manufacturer and/or the prescribing physician.

Legal Responsibility of Providers

Health care providers, including family physicians and dermatologists, have a responsibility to inform their patients of all potential side effects. Medical professionals should not downplay side-effects, but should make sure patients are aware of the possibility of them. Not taking the time to explain all potential side effects can be considered negligent on the part of the health care professional.

Prescriptions Prior to Black Box Warnings

Many consumers suffer side effects from Accutane that was prescribed and taken before the black box warnings were placed on the containers. If you or a loved one is experiencing serious side effects as a result of taking Accutane, and you were not properly informed of the risks associated with it, you may have a legitimate grievance against the Hoffman La Roche.

For more information on health complications from Accutane, potential side effects and the legal ramifications, please fill out a case evaluation form today. We have a team of attorneys who are highly experienced in this field and can answer your questions. Not only can they help you decide on your next step and offer you legal guidance, they can also help you get the compensation you are entitled to.