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Amnesteem
People who have severe nodular acne that has not responded adequately to other treatments may receive Amnesteem. This prescription medication comes as a capsule that is taken twice a day for 15 to 20 weeks. Hearing problems and dry skin are possible side effects. This drug poses a significant danger to pregnant women, so there are strict laws for prescribing and dispensing it.
Amnesteem® (isotretinoin) is a prescription acne medication. It is a generic version of Accutane®, a brand-name drug that is no longer manufactured.
Amnesteem is approved to treat severe nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments. It can be quite effective, with long-lasting effects after a single 15- or 20-week course. However, this drug can cause serious side effects and is extremely dangerous for pregnant women. As a result, there are strict rules and regulations for prescribing and dispensing it.
(Click What Is Amnesteem Used For? for more information on this topic, including possible off-label uses.)
Just like any medicine, Amnesteem may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. However, serious reactions are also possible.
Some of the possible side effects of Amnesteem include but are not limited to:
- Psychiatric problems, such as depression or suicidal thoughts
- High triglycerides
- Hearing problems
- Dry eyes, lips, nose, and skin.
(Click Amnesteem Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD