Many people who have found relief from their acne consider Accutane a miracle drug. Meant to be a last resort for those with severe or cystic acne, Accutane is a potent oral medication that often will clear skin when all other treatments have failed.

But Accutane has been linked to a host of serious side effects, including severe birth defects and depression. Now, a Utah woman has been awarded $10.5 million dollars after a New Jersey court ruled Accutane caused her inflammatory bowel disease. The woman had taken Accutane on and off for many years, and eventually had to have part of her colon removed. She is the third person who to win a judgment against Accutane maker Roche.

With all the scary side effects listed on the package and the bad publicity Accutane has received in recent years, you may wonder why anyone in their right mind would take the drug?

A friend of mine went through two courses of the drug several years ago, back when the depression and Accutane link was getting a lot of publicity. When I asked her if she was worried, she gave me a look that I can only describe as shock. "No," she said. "I was depressed because of my acne. Taking Accutane was the best thing I've ever done because I feel good about myself again."

So, for some people, Accutane can be a viable treatment option. First and foremost, talk with your dermatologist. Learn how Accutane works, and make sure you fully understand the possible side effects. Exhaust all other treatment options before trying Accutane. Being informed and educated about this acne drug will ultimately help you make the right decision.

Related Topics:

• All About Accutane
• The Link Between Accutane and Depression
• Systemic Medications for Acne
• Find a Dermatologist