Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a strong medication used to treat severe acne that hasn’t cleared up with other treatments. If you’ve struggled with acne that won’t go away, Accutane might be a solution to help clear your skin for good. It works by reducing oil production in your skin, which helps prevent breakouts.
However, due to its strength, it’s usually considered after trying other options. Before starting Accutane, it’s important to talk to your dermatologist to learn about how it works, the benefits, and any potential side effects. In this article, we’ll explain what you need to know if you’re thinking about trying Accutane.
What is Accutane?
Accutane® is a brand name for a medicine called isotretinoin, which is also sold under other names like Absorica® and Claravis®. It’s a form of vitamin A and has been used to treat acne since 1982.
Accutane is mostly used for severe acne, especially when it causes scars. One type of severe acne is cystic acne, where the pimples are large, painful, and leave scars.
In the past, isotretinoin was only used for severe acne. Today, doctors may also recommend it for moderate acne that leads to scars. It can also help people with mild acne who have scars and haven’t found success with other treatments. Whether you’re dealing with acne and busy with a Digital Pakistani lifestyle, isotretinoin might be the solution to help clear up your skin.
How does Accutane work?
Accutane works by targeting the sebaceous glands in your skin. It helps slow down the production of sebum, the oily substance your skin produces and makes the oil thinner. This reduces the chance of pores getting clogged, which helps prevent acne.
How Long Does Accutane Take To Work?
There are different ways to use isotretinoin, and doctors may choose the best plan for each person. Some suggest taking a high dose for 6 months, while others base the dose on your body weight. Some doctors may treat until your acne is under control for about 3 months. It’s also common to start with a lower dose in the first month to help your body adjust.
Most people are prescribed Accutane for 4 to 6 months, but some may need to take it longer, with an additional 4 to 6 months of treatment. About half of the people who take Accutane find that it completely clears their acne, so they don’t need further treatment. The more Accutane someone takes, the higher the chance of fully curing their acne.
We understand that everyone’s skin is different. That’s why we work with you to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Whether you’re managing skin care with a Digital Pakistani lifestyle or need something more specific, we offer a mix of options to give you the best results.
Who is a candidate for Accutane in Phoenix or Mesa, Arizona?
Accutane is used for teenagers or adults with severe acne, like cystic acne, or for those whose acne doesn’t improve with other treatments. It can also help prevent acne from leaving scars. Doctors now recommend Accutane earlier because of concerns about overusing antibiotics for acne. If you think Accutane might be right for you, reach out to learn more or schedule a consultation.
Why does Accutane have a bad reputation?
Isotretinoin has more risks, is harder to use, and can cost more than other acne treatments. It’s controversial because it can cause birth defects if you get pregnant while taking it, and it can have serious side effects.
How do you try to prevent pregnancies for patients on isotretinoin?
Isotretinoin can cause birth defects if you get pregnant while taking it, so pregnancy must be prevented during treatment. The “iPledge” program helps make sure this happens. Anyone using isotretinoin must join the program, which includes things like consent forms, monthly pregnancy tests, and checking for side effects. People who can get pregnant will need to use birth control. These questions can help you better understand your care and recovery.
Is the stomach flu influenza?
No, gastroenteritis, often called the “stomach flu,” isn’t caused by the influenza virus and isn’t linked to the seasonal flu.
A Note from Cleveland Clinic
The flu is common, but it can sometimes lead to serious health issues. Getting your flu shot is the best way to stay healthy and protect your loved ones and community. If you’re pregnant or have other health conditions, talk to your doctor about ways to reduce your risk. While having the flu isn’t fun, most people recover with rest, some chicken soup, and a few good movies at home.
Potential Accutane Severe Side Effect
Isotretinoin can raise cholesterol, especially triglycerides. It’s a good idea to check your cholesterol before starting. High cholesterol is rare in healthy young people but can run in families. If your cholesterol goes up, it usually goes back to normal after stopping the medicine. Mild increases can be managed with exercise or fish oil. If you’re at risk, your doctor may suggest a lower dose.
Isotretinoin can cause liver problems, so it’s important to limit alcohol while using it. Doctors usually recommend avoiding alcohol completely. While having a drink now and then might be okay, it’s not clear how much is safe during treatment.
There have been concerns about mental health side effects with isotretinoin, like depression, psychosis, and even suicide. People with severe acne may also have a higher risk of depression. If isotretinoin causes mental health issues, it’s rare. You can stop the medicine at any time.
A history of depression doesn’t mean you can’t take isotretinoin, but it should be used carefully with help from a mental health professional. Many people feel better about themselves as their acne clears up. If you’re worried about mental health risks, talk to a dermatologist.
Other potential accutance Side Effect
At Digital pakistani, patients often ask about using isotretinoin in the Phoenix area. Isotretinoin can cause dryness in the skin, eyes, nose, and lips, which can be tricky in a dry climate like Phoenix. It can also make your skin more sensitive to the sun. This can lead to rashes, sunburns, or sun poisoning.
In some places, doctors prefer to prescribe isotretinoin in the fall or winter to avoid sun exposure. But with over 300 sunny days a year in Arizona, waiting for no sun to prescribe isotretinoin isn’t practical! Based on experience, sun-related side effects are more likely when there are big changes in sun exposure—like someone from a colder climate going to a sunny place—rather than with regular sun exposure.
If you’re on isotretinoin, be sure to wear sunscreen, stay out of the sun during peak hours, and protect yourself with long sleeves, sunglasses, and a hat. A good lip balm with SPF is also a smart idea to use daily.
Our Method and Experience
Our team of skilled dermatologists is committed to giving you the best care. We use the latest tools and methods to treat and prevent skin issues. We take time to understand your health and concerns so we can give you the right treatment. Each plan is made just for you, based on your needs, lifestyle, and goals. If you’re dealing with acne, our doctors are here to help you get the results you’re looking for, especially if you’re managing skin care with a busy Digital Pakistani lifestyle.