Accutane Recall News

What you need to know about Ulcerative Colitis following the Accutane recall from the marketplace in 2009.

What is it?

Ulcerative Colitis (UC) is a disorder characterized by chronic inflammation of the colon, specifically the large intestine. This abnormal inflammation leads to ulcers in the lining of the intestines, which produce a myriad of debilitating and painful symptoms. Patients have continued to report Accutane side effects involving ulcerative colitis following using this acne medication.

This disease is related to Crohn’s disease, and together they are included under the general term of irritable bowel syndrome. This disorder can flare up and go into remission, but can be an ongoing problem for many years for those afflicted.

Causes

The causes for ulcerative colitis are unknown. Scientists believe however, that the disorder originates from the immune system. Immune cells and the proteins they produce make up the human immune system, which serve to defend us against harmful bacteria. The activation of the immune response is responsible for the inflammation associated with ulcerative colitis.

Symptoms

Symptoms vary person to person, depending on where the disease has settled in the colon, and the extent of the inflammation. The symptoms generally involve abdominal pain, diarrhea, alternate constipation, rectal bleeding, and anemia.

Diagnosis

Doctors will suspect UC upon hearing of its characteristic symptoms. They may perform a blood test, where they will be looking for a high white cell count (which indicates inflammation), and anemia. Doctors may also perform various tests including a sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy, barium enema x-ray and biopsies.

Treatment

Some individuals suffering from Accutane ulcerative colitis side effects obtain some relief by a regime of medications which include anti-inflammatory drugs, and immune suppressors. Vitamin and mineral therapies, diet changes and stress reduction techniques are also employed. Only in the most severe of cases will surgery be an option. If the UC is very advanced, doctors may deem it necessary to remove some, or even the entire colon.

Accutane Recall and Lawsuit Help

If you are suffering from this debilitating disease, and took the drug Accutane, you may be entitled to compensation for your suffering. In the recent past numerous lawsuits have been successfully filed against the manufacturer following the Accutane recall. Contact us and speak to one of our lawyers and learn what recourse you may have including filing an Accutane lawsuit.