Accutane Crohn's Disease and Other Gastrointestinal Problems of Concern

Patients who have used the acne drug Accutane often already know of the potential side effects because the serious and potentially life-threatening complications of the seemingly innocent drug have been in the news lately. This is partially due to a number of lawsuits that have been filed against the manufacturers of Accutane, the drug making giant Hoffman-La Roche. Accutane was recalled in 2009 in a voluntary move by the manufacturers, allegedly because of generic competition, but many people believe that the recall was initiated because of the growing number of Accutane lawsuits. 

Legal action in Accutane side effects cases

A number of former patients of the acne drug Accutane have experienced the serious and often lifelong side effects of Accutane use. Some of these patients have decided to take legal action and contact an Accutane lawyer that could help them file a lawsuit against the drug makers. These plaintiffs are filing suit in order to win compensation that could help cover medical costs past and future, as well as pain and suffering, lost wages from work missed or jobs lost, and other significant costs. Litigation is the best option for a number of Accutane side effects victims, as covering costs associated with side effects can be quite costly. 

Accutane Crohn's and ulcerative colitis in lawsuits

Two of the most commonly cited conditions in Accutane litigation are Accutane Crohn's disease and Accutane ulcerative colitis. Both of these conditions are known as Accutane inflammatory bowel diseases, and are gastrointestinal conditions that have been linked to Accutane use. There is no cure for either of the conditions, but there are a number of treatments that patients can undergo to help alleviate the symptoms. They are almost always lifelong diseases and can be life-threatening.

Crohn's disease is a gastrointestinal disease that can manifest anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract and symptoms vary based on where the disease manifests. Common symptoms are abdominal pain and cramping, weight loss, and severe diarrhea. Other side effects include fever, mouth sores, skin disorders, eye inflammations, and fatigue.

Accutane ulcerative colitis is usually more localized, with it affecting the rectal area for the most part, although it may involve the entire large intestine over time. Side effects are similar to those of Crohn's disease but can include skin lumps or ulcers and rectal pain. 

More than 6,000 Accutane lawsuits have already been filed and experts expect that more are on the way.