subject: What Is Acne? [print this page] Acne, from the Greek akme meaning point or spot, occurs when pores in the skin become blocked by dead skin, hair follicles, and sebum, an oil liquid produced by the oil glands. When pores are blocked, they become infected with bacteria. Acne develops when the infected pores swell. Common types of acne are whiteheads, blackheads, and pimples. More severe acne is comprised of nobules, large, solid pimples painfully embedded deep in the skin, and cysts, painful, pus-filled pimples that often leave scars.
Approximately 75% of adolescents and young adults, ages 11-30, experience acne of some type. Both men and women of all races and ethnicities are susceptible to acne, but men usually experience it in higher quantities and longer intervals, mostly likely because of higher testosterone levels.
Most acne is treated with twice-daily cleanings of mild soap and water or over-the-counter (OTC) medications containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide. More severe acne requires a visit to a dermatologist where a doctor can prescribe Retin A or even an antibiotic to help combat bacteria and infection. In some cases, when other medications and antibiotics do not work, a prescription for isotretonoin, a derivative of Vitamin A, is prescribed.
One brand name of isotretonoin is Accutane, manufactured by the Swiss-based pharmaceutical company Hoffman-LaRoche from 1982-2009. Prescribed to patients primarily when other treatments failed, Accutane is known to have caused birth defects, heart ailments, depression and suicidal thoughts, and inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohns diesase and ulcerative colitis. Accutane is no longer on the market, but generic brands, such as Sotret, Claravis, and Amnesteen.
Have You Been Affected by Accutane?
Any individual or the relative of an individual who has suffered due to Accutanes side effects is permitted to file a lawsuit. The lawyers at Powers Taylor LLP are available to help you determine whether you are qualified to seek compensation. You may be eligible to seek reimbursement for medical expenses, compensation for pain and suffering, and punitive damages (compensation granted for losses suffered). If you need further information about the harmful side effects of Accutane or legal advice concerning personal injury matters, we invite you to contact us or to fill out our form on this website for a free case evaluation.
For more information visit:http://www.unsafedrugs.com/accutane-anti-acne-drug/
