Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a very effective oral prescription drug that treats moderate to severe acne. This drug is a vitamin A derivative that reduces oil production, promotes the shedding of dead skin cells, and reduces inflammation, ultimately treating and preventing acne formation with a 95% success rate after the first course. It is sold under several brand names, including Absorica, Zenatane, Claravis, Amnesteem, and Myorisan.Although Accutane is the closest thing to a cure for acne, it can induce a number of side effects, which patients should be informed of before beginning treatment.
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YOU MUST BE THE RIGHT CANDIDATE FOR ACCUTANE
Accutane, which was formerly regarded as a last resort for patients with severe, scarring, nodulocystic acne that was resistant to other therapies, is now more widely utilized in dermatology. Accutane is now recommended for moderate to mild acne that is resistant to other topical or oral therapies. The best Accutane candidate is obedient and understands the dangers and side effects of Accutane, allowing them to prepare for the treatment course.
PERIODIC BLOOD TESTS MAY BE REQUIRED
Accutane is processed in the liver and can impair blood cholesterol and liver function enzymes. Prior to beginning Accutane, all candidates must have a baseline blood test to determine their liver and cholesterol status. Anyone who is pregnant must obtain a pregnancy test every month.
After starting Accutane, the dermatologist may decide to review bloodwork after two months. Accutane may cause minor elevations in blood cholesterol or liver enzymes after two months of use. After two months, any alterations in blood work tend to settle or improve. Any further monthly bloodwork may be required at the discretion of the dermatologist. If the patient and dermatology physician decide not to check bloodwork monthly, any child-bearing patients must have a urine pregnancy test performed at each appointment visit.
YOU CANNOT USE ACCUTANE WHILE PREGNANT
If taken during pregnancy, Accutane can lead to severe birth defects that permanently disfigure the child. Because of this, all Accutane patients who are child-bearing must take two pregnancy tests, spaced 30 days apart, before they can receive the prescription for Accutane. Child-bearing patients must also agree to use two forms of birth control 30 days before starting, during, and 30 days after stopping Accutane. Pregnancy, contemplation of pregnancy, non-compliance with contraception and breastfeeding are contraindications to Accutane.
Here’s a list of other skin care ingredients or products that should be avoided while pregnant.
YOU MIGHT HAVE TO CHANGE YOUR DIET
Due to the risk of Accutane worsening cholesterol levels and causing liver stress and elevated liver enzymes, the dermatologist may ask the Accutane candidate to reduce their dietary intake of foods rich in sugars, carbohydrates, or cholesterol. Reducing alcohol intake also alleviates liver stress during the Accutane course.
YOUR ACNE MIGHT GET WORSE BEFORE IT GETS BETTER
Some patients experience an increase in breakouts, otherwise known as a “purging period”, soon after starting Accutane. To mitigate the risk of a purge, many dermatologists will start patients on topical retinoids such as tretinoin or oral medications such as antibiotics.
YOUR SKIN IS GOING TO FEEL DRY
Accutane significantly suppresses skin oil production, which results in dryness in areas dense in area glands such as the lips and perioral skin. This dryness can be alleviated by applying classy cosmetic emollients recommended by one’s dermatologist to the affected areas.
SIDE EFFECTS MAY INCLUDE MUSCLE ACHES AND UPSET STOMACH
Although less common, side effects can include joint and muscle aches and, on rare occasions, stomach aches. The musculoskeletal side effects typically occur in those with active lifestyles, including runners and bodybuilders. Stomach aches and cramps will usually lead to the dermatologist ordering a follow-up set of bloodwork to check on the Accutane patient’s liver function and cholesterol levels.
DEPRESSION AND SUICIDAL THOUGHTS, WHILE NOT COMMON, ARE POSSIBLE
When Accutane was first approved by the FDA in the 1980s, there was a common misconception that it caused sadness and suicide. Studies have found no evidence to support this. In fact, many individuals report that their mental health improves after taking Accutane for acne.
However, some tales have emerged in which patients experienced depressive or suicidal thoughts while taking the medicine. If you are predisposed to depression, consult with a dermatologist about the potential of worsening mood disorders while taking Accutane.
YOU MAY BE ON ACCUTANE FOR A WHILE
Accutane courses normally take six to nine months to complete, while many patients require longer treatment times. The length of treatment will be determined by the patient’s clinical improvement and tolerance for adverse effects. A dermatologist may be the ideal person to ask about one’s treatment plan.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU STOP TAKING ACCUTANE
After completing the Accutane cycle, any adverse effects should decrease within 30 days. Accutane remains in the body for 30 days after the final capsule is consumed, so child-bearing patients should continue using two types of contraception for 30 days after completing Accutane.
In general, Accutane is the best treatment for acne, especially scarring acne that has not responded to previous treatments. It has a 95% efficacy rate, meaning that 95% of patients who complete the course will not experience acne again. A small proportion of people, about 5%, may experience an acne recurrence and need to repeat their Accutane treatment later in life.
