Isotretinoin, a synthetic Vitamin A product commonly prescribed for the treatment of acne has been implicated as a probable cause of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), and may actually speed up the rate at which symptoms appear for those who are predisposed to IBD.

In a review of studies from 1997-2002, researchers found a strong link between [tag-tec]isotretinoin[/tag-tec] treatment and development of IBD in more than 68% of the cases reviewed.

IBD symptoms were improved or resolved completely in about 25% of the patients who stopped taking isotretinoin.

The retinoid family of substances triggers various kinds of biological processes in the body, including T-cell stimulation, disturbances in epithelial cell growth, and other effects in the synthesis, or effects of biological compounds.

There is a link between IBD and acne, as both tend to begin in young adulthood.

While these findings don’t mean that you should stop using [tag-ice]isotretinoin[/tag-ice], you should be aware of these possible side effects and contact your doctor immediately if you start to experience any kind of GI problems while taking this medication.

Share This

If you're new here, you may want to subscribe to my RSS feed. Thanks for visiting!