Accutane®, an anti-acne medication recalled from the market in June 2009, has been associated with many severe side effects. One of its side effects is, reportedly, violent behavior. Accutane® is a brand name for isotretinoin; it was approved in May 1982.

Even if someone has stopped taking the medication, side effects may continue. A warning distributed by the drug's manufacturer, Roche, says that Accutane® "may cause . . .aggressive and/or violent behaviors."

The medication is a potent drug for treating nodular acne. A derivative of Vitamin A, Accutane® has been successful at treating severe acne, but it carries a high risk of many serious, sometimes life-threatening side effects.

In addition to a potential risk of aggressive behavior, other problems associated with Accutane®, include:

• Increased pressure in the brain, which can lead to permanent blindness, and (although in only a small number of cases) death
• Severe headaches
• Seizures
• Strokes
• Dizziness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Ischemic colitis
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Colitis
• Crohn's disease
• Ischemic bowel disease
• Autoimmune disorders
• Ulcerative colitis
• Problems with the bones, muscles, joints and ligaments
• Back pain

In addition, problems of the skin including a severe rash may occur. The manufacturer warns to call the doctor immediately if a rash is accompanied by fever, blisters on the arms, legs, face, sores in the nose, throat, or mouth. Roche advises patients to stop taking Accutane® and call the doctor if the following occur:

• Severe stomach, chest or intestinal pain
• Problems with swallowing
• Heartburn that is new or that is worse
• Diarrhea
• Bleeding from the rectum
• Dark urine
• Yellowing of the skin or eyes

The warnings continue, telling patients to stop taking the medication and call their doctor if they break a bone, experience weakness of the muscles, have problems hearing or ringing in the ears. Hearing loss can be permanent, the drug maker advises.

According to reports, additional problems associated with taking the medication have been problems with sight and ability to see in the dark, dry eyes that hurt, high levels of fats and cholesterol in the blood, severe allergic reactions, blood sugar problems, including diabetes, and a decrease in white or red blood cells.

Have You Experienced Increased Violence or Another Side Effect?

If you or someone you know has taken the drug then exhibited violent behavior, or any of the numerous other side effects, you may want to consult with an Accutane® attorney to find out if you qualify to seek financial recovery. At Accutane® Recall, our attorneys can provide you with a free consultation. We are accepting new cases across the U.S.