Retinoic Acid in Accutance May Lead to Bowel Issues

Thursday, 17 February 2011 11:19

Accutane Ingredient Retinoic Acid May be the Link to IBS

Millions of people have suffered from severe cases of acne over the years in the United States, and many of them turned to prescription medication to help them avoid such results as permanent scarring and pain.  One of the leading medications in this regard was known as Accutane, which was used widely to combat this condition, and with much success.  However, the need for help from Accutane lawyers eventually surfaced with thousands of people, and reports of Accutane inflammatory bowel side effects continue to arise.  Below is a look at how one of the ingredients in this medication could be the link to the development of Accutane side effects.

Acne Drugs, Retinoic Acid and Inflammatory Bowel Disease Side Effects

One of the most common and most serious Accutane side effects is inflammatory bowel disease, or IBD.  IBD can cause permanent damage to those who suffer from it, and for years it remained a mystery as to how those who used Accutane developed this side effect.  It seems that research of an entirely different condition known as celiac disease may have shed light on a potential answer.

Celiac disease is a condition whereby people cannot eat foods such as cereal or cookies or drink beer.  That’s because the presence of high levels of a compound known as Interleukin-15 prevents their digestive systems from being able to process gluten.  In furtherance of this discovery, researchers also discovered that the introduction of retinoic acid, which is not only a byproduct of vitamin A but also one of the ingredients used in Accutane, made the celiac disease that was present in research subjects much worse.

This meant that people who went through this protocol suffered greatly when it came to the ability to digest foods and to absorb nutrition, much like what occurs when someone suffers from some form of IBD as a result of using Accutane.  While this research is relatively new, it provides promise for those who need answers.

Accutane Lawyers Advise on Lawsuits for IBS Side Effect

If you or someone you love has been harmed as a result of Accutane side effects, you need to seek the help of Accutane attorneys who have been holding drug companies accountable for many years.  Contact the Phillips National Injury Group today to schedule a free initial consultation.