Are you struggling with severe acne that just won’t seem to go away no matter what you try? If so, you may have heard of isotretinoin, commonly known as Accutane. This powerful medication is known for its effectiveness in treating stubborn acne, but it also comes with its own set of questions and considerations. In this post, we’ll answer all your burning questions about Accutane.
What is Accutane (isotretinoin), and How Does It Work?
Accutane is a potent oral medication that belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids. It works by targeting the factors that contribute to acne formation. It reduces the size and oil production of the sebaceous glands in the skin. This helps prevent the buildup of excess oil that can clog pores. Normalizes the shedding of dead skin cells, which also helps keep pores from becoming blocked. The anti-inflammatory properties of Accutane also reduce redness and swelling associated with acne and indirectly decrease the populations of acne-causing bacteria on the skin. Through these combined actions, Accutane can comprehensively address the root causes of acne, leading to dramatic improvements in the appearance and severity of the condition.
How Long Do I Have To Be On Accutane?
The length of time a person is typically on Accutane can vary depending on the severity of the acne and how well the person responds to the medication. However, a common treatment duration is usually around 5 to 6 months, with a recommended cumulative dose between 120 to 150 mg/kg.
What Conditions Does Accutane Treat?
Accutane is primarily used to treat severe, nodular acne that has not responded to other treatments. It can also be prescribed for cases of cystic acne or acne that causes scarring. Aside from acne, Accutane can be used in other conditions such as rosacea, hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, and more.
How Effective is Accutane in Treating Severe Acne?
Accutane is highly effective in treating severe acne, with many patients experiencing significant improvement or even complete clearance of their acne after a full course of treatment. The percentage of Accutane (isotretinoin) users who require more than one round of treatment varies depending on individual response to the medication. Generally, it is estimated that around 20-30% of patients may require a second course of Accutane treatment to achieve long-term remission of their acne.
What are the Common Side Effects of Accutane?
Common side effects of Accutane include dry skin, chapped lips, dry eyes, and temporary worsening of acne. Increased photosensitivity which means you are much more sensitive to the sun and sunburns. Some patients may also experience temporary loss of hair (telogen effluvium),changes in mood or dryness of the nasal passages. Most side effects experienced while on Accutane are temporary and subside after completion of treatment.
How Long Does it Take to See Results from Accutane Treatment?
Most patients start to see improvements in their acne within the first few weeks of treatment. However, it may take several months for the full effects of isotretinoin to be seen.
Are There Any Special Precautions or Warnings Associated with Accutane Use?
Accutane is a powerful medication that requires careful monitoring by a healthcare provider. Patients taking isotretinoin should not become pregnant due to the risk of severe birth defects. Blood tests and follow-up appointments are necessary to ensure safe and effective treatment. We usually draw labs at the start of treatment and the start of the second month, if those labs look good and we’re not making dose adjustments that is all we need. We are checking your liver function and cholesterol levels.
Can Accutane be Used During Pregnancy or While Breastfeeding?
Isotretinoin should NOT be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding due to the risk of birth defects. Effective contraception must be used during isotretinoin treatment and for a period after discontinuation if you are sexually active.
How Should Accutane Be Taken for Optimal Results?
Accutane should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is usually taken with a fatty meal to improve absorption and reduce stomach upset. Emphasis on fatty food, since isotretinoin is a vitamin A derivative, and vitamin A is a fatty soluble vitamin.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Interactions to Be Aware of When Taking Accutane?
While taking isotretinoin, it’s important to avoid excessive vitamin A supplements, as this can increase the risk of side effects. We also recommend that you do not take tetracycline antibiotics. These include minocycline, doxycycline, oxytetracycline, and lymecycline. Alcohol consumption should also be limited as it can interact with isotretinoin and cause liver damage.
Is it true that my acne will worsen before it gets better?
Maybe, it is common for acne to worsen initially before improving while on Accutane (isotretinoin). This phenomenon is known as the “purging phase.” During this period, you may experience an initial flare-up of acne as the medication starts to work by bringing underlying impurities to the surface. This can be frustrating, but it is often a sign that the treatment is starting to take effect. Some will purge more or less than others. On average if this is to occur it will usually happen between weeks 4-6.
How long does it take for Accutane to come out of my system?
The elimination half-life of Accutane is approximately 10-20 hours. This means that it may take around 5.5 to 11 days for the drug to be mostly cleared from your system. However, traces of the medication may still be detectable in the body for a longer period.
Procedures to Avoid During Accutane
Laser hair removal: Accutane increases skin sensitivity, raising the risk of burns, scarring, and discoloration. Wait at least 6 months after treatment before considering laser hair removal.
Waxing: Waxing can also cause excessive irritation and damage to the skin during Accutane therapy. Avoid all waxing procedures while on the medication.
Chemical peels and microdermabrasion: These exfoliating treatments can be problematic due to your skin’s heightened sensitivity. Postpone these procedures until after your Accutane course is finished.
Tattoos: Getting new tattoos or having existing ones worked on can be risky during Accutane treatment, as the medication can slow healing and increase the risk of pigment changes or keloid formation. Wait at least 6 months after finishing Accutane before considering any tattoo work.
Why Do I Need A Monthly Appointment, Can I Just Get Refills?
The iPLEDGE program in the United States requires strict monitoring of contraception use, pregnancy testing, and counseling for both male and female patients. Monthly visits ensure compliance with these requirements. Overall, the monthly visits are a crucial part of the risk management program associated with isotretinoin use, ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the treatment. As a result, healthcare providers are required to see patients monthly before refilling isotretinoin prescriptions, as part of the comprehensive risk management measures associated with the medication.
In conclusion, isotretinoin can be a life-changing medication for individuals struggling with severe acne. We are passionate about getting this medication to those who need it and are candidates for treatment. If you have any further questions please reach out at [email protected] and if you’re ready to start your Accutane journey we’re here to guide you. Book your appointment today!