Can Accutane cause diabetes? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether Accutane causes diabetes in the patients taking it or not, what is the link between Accutane and diabetes, what factors contribute to Accutane-induced diabetes and what to do if Accutane causes diabetes.
Can Accutane cause diabetes?
Yes, Accutane can cause diabetes. A definite causal link between Accutane and diabetes has not been established yet. However, some studies show that Accutane can cause blood sugar problems in patients taking it. These conditions may include new-onset diabetes or a worsening of the condition if the patient already has diabetes.
Accutane is the brand name of the drug called isotretinoin. It is the derivative of vitamin A and belongs to the class of retinoids. Accutane works by shrinking the oil glands of the skin, reducing the production of oil and preventing the acne-causing bacteria from thriving on the skin. It is used for the treatment of acne (1).
If you are taking Accutane for acne and have concerns regarding the side effects of Accutane then you need to consult your healthcare provider. They can help you to determine the potential side effects Accutane might have on you.
What is the link between Accutane and diabetes?
The exact link between Accutane and diabetes is not fully understood but the researchers have proposed several possible links between Accutane and diabetes. Isotretinoin is found to have its effects on the insulin signalling pathways. These effects may make the cells less responsive to the actions of insulin leading to diabetes (2).
The reduced insulin sensitivity may cause high blood sugar levels causing an increased risk of type-2 diabetes.
Some research studies have also shown the effect of isotretinoin on the beta cells of the pancreas. These cells are responsible for the production of insulin in the body. Affected beta cells may impair the secretion of insulin which may also contribute to the onset of diabetes (3).
Isotretinoin can lead to low-grade systemic inflammation. This low-grade systemic inflammation has been found to be a risk factor for insulin resistance in the body as well as type-2 diabetes. The inflammation can exacerbate the negative effects on insulin function and resistance (4).
What factors contribute to Accutane-induced diabetes?
Accutane-induced diabetes can be affected by the following factors.
Dosage regimen
Increased doses and duration of Accutane may contribute to the increased risk of diabetes caused by Accutane. Higher doses not only increase the therapeutic effects in some areas but also increase the incidence, severity and frequency of adverse effects caused by Accutane.
Individual metabolic variation
Individual sensitivity plays a crucial role in the effect of Accutane particularly in case of increased risk of diabetes. The effects of Accutane differ among different individuals. The variation can be attributed to differences in metabolic rate and genetic predisposition.
Accutane can have varied effects on glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity that may result in the variation of side effects in different individuals.
Genetic predisposition is also an essential part of individual sensitivity. The genetic makeup of a body decides and influences the effects of medication on the individual. Certain genetic variations can make a person more susceptible to encountering changes in their metabolic pathways leading them towards diabetes (5).
Underlying health conditions
If you are taking Accutane for acne and are a patient with one of these medical health conditions then you may be more likely to develop diabetes.
- Obesity
- Metabolic syndrome
- Pre-diabetes
- Insulin resistance
Due to drug-disease interaction, you may be observed diabetic condition after starting Accutane.
Life style
Sedentary lifestyles are the major factors for Accutane-induced diabetes. Unhealthy life choices like poor diet, physical inactivity, excessive stress and excessive smoking can increase the risk of Accutane-induced diabetes in patients taking Accutane for the treatment of acne (6).
What to do if Accutane causes diabetes?
If you are experiencing diabetic symptoms such as increased thirst, increased hunger and increased urination after taking Accutane, then you need to consult your healthcare provider.
Consulting healthcare provider
Your healthcare provider will evaluate your condition, determine your blood glucose levels, perform the necessary tests and determine the severity of your condition. After a careful evaluation and examination, your doctor may modify your treatment regimen.
Lowering the dose of Accutane can be a necessary change. While awaiting the medical advice discontinue Accutane to prevent any serious complications. You may be prescribed medications that can help you with your condition. These may include (7):
- Subcutaneous Insulin injections
- Metformin
- Sulfonylurea
- Dipeptidyl-peptidase-4
- Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors
Alternatives to Accutane
In case of a diagnosis of diabetes caused by Accutane, your doctor will help you explore alternative medications to treat acne that are less likely to cause or worsen the condition of diabetes. Alternative medications may include (8):
- Topical retinoids
- Oral antibiotics such as mupirocin
- Spironolactone
- Chemical peels
- Laser or light therapy
In my opinion, Accutane can cause diabetes in some patients. You need to consult your healthcare provider before starting the treatment of your acne with Accutane. You should discuss your individual susceptibility to experiencing diabetes after starting the treatment with Accutane.
Not every individual will experience the same effects of medication due to various factors contributing to Accutane-induced diabetes. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor regarding any concerns you have about your treatment plan.
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References
1.-
Pile, H. D. (2023, May 1). Isotretinoin. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK525949/
2.-
Soyuduru, G., Ösoy Adışen, E., Kadıoğlu Özer, İ., & Aksakal, A. B. (2019). The effect of isotretinoin on insulin resistance and adipocytokine levels in acne vulgaris patients. Turkish journal of medical sciences, 49(1), 238–244. https://doi.org/10.3906/sag-1806-44
3.-
Rhee, E. J., & Plutzky, J. (2012). Retinoid metabolism and diabetes mellitus. Diabetes & metabolism journal, 36(3), 167–180. https://doi.org/10.4093/dmj.2012.36.3.167
4.-
Dicembrini, I., Bardini, G., & Rotella, C. M. (2009). Association between oral isotretinoin therapy and unmasked latent immuno-mediated diabetes. Diabetes care, 32(8), e99. https://doi.org/10.2337/dc09-0751
5.-
Ali O. (2013). Genetics of type 2 diabetes. World journal of diabetes, 4(4), 114–123. https://doi.org/10.4239/wjd.v4.i4.114
6.-
Goyal, R. (2023, June 23). Type 2 Diabetes. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513253/
7.-
Hamilton, M. T., Hamilton, D. G., & Zderic, T. W. (2014). Sedentary behavior as a mediator of type 2 diabetes. Medicine and sport science, 60, 11–26. https://doi.org/10.1159/000357332
8.-
Kraft, J., & Freiman, A. (2011). Management of acne. CMAJ : Canadian Medical Association journal = journal de l’Association medicale canadienne, 183(7), E430–E435. https://doi.org/10.1503/cmaj.090374
