The decision to take Accutane

What is Accutane?

Accutane or isotretinoin is a pharmaceutical drug derived from the same base that is in Retin-A. It is used to treat severe acne that is not responding to other forms of treatment.

Deciding it is time to take Accutane

The decision to take Accutane is a big one as it is a very strong drug, with often very serious side-effects. It is usually time to take Accutane if the patient has:

• Severe acne that is causing scarring and is not responding to other treatments.
• Has attempted topical solutions for at least 2 months with no improvement in acne
• Has taken oral antibiotics as perscribed by a dermatologist with no sustainable improvement in acne.
• The patient is NOT pregnant or is NOT planning on getting pregnant for at least the next 7 months. Pregnancy and Accutane use.
• The patient has cystic acne (or nodular acne) that is unlikely to respond to other treatments and is requiring frequent visits to the doctor for cyst infections and/or pustule drainage.
• The patient is emotionally unable to tolerate the chronic affects of acne and is willing and ready to cope with the possible side effects of a more extreme form of treatment.

Other factors to be conscious of when taking Accutane

Sun Sensitivity: The patient who is considering taking Accutane should be aware of the sun-sensitivity caused by the drug. If their job requires working outdoors in the sun, they should consider switching jobs until the course of Accutane is done (or at least covering up as much as possible and using a high SPF (30 SPF of greater) sunscreen.)

Regular Blood Tests: Regular blood tests are required while taking this medication. Monthly tests gauge the level of white blood count, red blood count, liver toxicity, cholesterol level and pregnancy. Patients may be taken off the drug if results show negative show potentially dangerous side-effects.

Alcohol Consumption: Accutane can be difficult on the liver; thus minimizing intake of or totally eliminating consumption of alcohol while on Accutane is important.

No Waxing or Facials: The skin is much more sensitive with Accutane; thus, it is recommended NOT to get facials, peels, do scrubs or any waxing while taking the medication. Given temporary thinning of the skin, these may cause permanent skin damage.

The decision to take Accutane is a personal one. Patients should be fully aware of potential side effects of Accutane to the patient and fetus (should they accidentally get pregnant). Patients should be working closely with a skilled dermatologist and should be under their supervision while taking the drug.

Related Links

• What to expect when taking Accutane