Accutane® was a powerful acne medication that was finally pulled from the market in 2009. Before the Accutane recall its users were exposed to dangerous Accutane side effects. One of the most serious of these Accutane side effects is the development of conditions called inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Inflammatory bowel disease includes two separate diseases called ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease. Accutane® side effects can lead to even more serious consequences if they are not treated. Ulcerative colitis symptoms can include fatigue, anemia, rectal bleeding, weight loss, skin sores and joint pain.

Ulcerative Colitis Diagnostic Tests

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis are very similar to Crohn's Disease and other intestinal disorders, so actual diagnosis requires diagnostic testing. A specialist such as a gastroenterologist may conduct some or all of the following tests

• Blood tests can reveal anemia, or high white blood cell counts which mean there is inflammation somewhere in the body
• Stool samples can check for hidden blood and rule out parasites and abnormal bacteria.
• Colonoscopy, to take pictures of the lining of the colon and the rectum, and also may remove tissue for a biopsy
• Barium enema x-ray involves filling the colon with barium, a substance which shows up on an x-ray, and can show any ulcers or other abnormalities

Accutane® Ulcerative Colitis Management

Though it is incurable, ulcerative colitis treatment programs will be used to help minimize symptoms. While there are medications that can control symptoms, the best thing to do is to control the diet. Diet tips include eating smaller meals, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding dairy, high fiber, and greasy foods. Alcohol and caffeine are also thought to cause flare-ups.

In patients for whom medications and diet are not controlling symptoms, or there are serious complications, surgery may be required to remove the colon.

Contact an Accutane® Recall Lawyer

If you took this drug prior to the Accutane® recall, you may be in danger of developing ulcerative colitis . You are also at risk if you've been treated with a generic form of Accutane®. You should monitor yourself for symptoms, and seek treatment if you begin to experience any of the painful symptoms.

Patients who have experienced Accutane® side effects should contact an Accutane® recall lawyer for further advice. Call 1-800-549-0970 for help.