Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a disease of the large intestine and the rectum. It causes inflammation and sores and is a type of inflammatory bowel disease. It generally affects the lower end of the intestine or colon, but can affect the entire area.

Symptoms of ulcerative colitis include: abdominal pain, bloody diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, fever, and fatigue. Abdominal pain and diarrhea are the most common symptoms and can range from mild to severe. The symptoms usually come and go and people can experience months and sometimes years between flare-ups.

Accutane, also known as Isotretinoin, is a medication that is used to treat acne.  Accutane has many reported side effects.   It has been linked to bowel problems, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis.  In June 2009, the manufacturer of Accutane announced that it notified the FDA of its intent to discontinue the manufacture and distribution of Accutane.

Ulcerative colitis generally manifests itself in people between the ages of 15 and 30 and then ages 50 to 70. It affects men and women equally. Those with family members who have ulcerative colitis are more prone to getting it as well.

Certain foods seem to cause ulcerative colitis symptoms to grow worse. Those diagnosed with this disease should try to avoid greasy, fatty foods, dairy products, alcohol, and caffeine. They should also avoid cruciferous vegetables that produce gas in the body. It is helpful to keep a food diary to track what foods the body reacts to. People with ulcerative colitis should drink lots of water and eat several small meals throughout the day.

Different medications seem to treat ulcerative colitis effectively. These medications are 5-aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) compounds, steroids to treat the inflammation, immune system suppressants, and various experimental treatments. If the patient suffers from severe symptoms of ulcerative colitis over many years, the colon may have to be removed.

Do you believe you or a loved one has been injured by Accutane®? Goldberg & Osborne can help.

The law firm of Goldberg & Osborne is dedicated to helping injured people nationwide and is currently accepting cases for Accutane® victims. For a FREE case evaluation, please call us toll-free at (800) 935-2770 or submit a short and simple online case form here.