4 replies to this topic

[aaw]

I will be taking accutane soon for my severe acne + scarring. However, I am so terrified of the drug that I'm considering trying it for one month only. But can one month of it cause any long term damage at a low dosage? Is it possible that I'll damage my body if i've only had a month's worth? Please help!!

[mklein]

i'm not an expert so these are good questions for your doctor. It seems like everyone reacts differently so I don't think anyone can predict for sure what your body will do. From what I've read the best ways to know how your body is reacting is monitoring how you feel through the course of the treatment, making sure you go for your regular monthly blood tests, and talk to your doctor about any side effects you are experiencing. Also your doctor will get you to go through blood tests before you even start accutane to determine if you are a good candidate. I've been on it for one month now and no major problems, but again, that's just me. You may react differently.

Hope that helps.

[misschrissy]

I think most doctors will advise against going on it for only one month. They will tell you to take it for at least 5 months. The drug probably won't work very well unless you use it for a while. For my first month of Accutane, I had some results, but mostly side effects (dryness, cold symptoms). No matter how long you take it, there are risks, and every body is different. You may not have many side effects, or you may also have some bad ones (like stomach issues.)

If you are seriously considering Accutane, you will need to take it longer than a month to have a really nice payoff. Otherwise, you will only feel dry but still have acne. You need to give it time to work. Maybe you should take the drug for one or two months, and if you feel uncomfortable with it, quit. You can quit at any time.

I think your fears are legitimate, so don't make any decision without having a long discussion with your doctor.

[lovely777]

i have been on accutane for 20 days now, and my skin is dry and i dont have any bad side effects at all, none. but that could b different for you. i would talk to your doctor about your concerns, and remember we are not taking the drug for the side effect, but to help us with this irritating problem! im not expecting side effects, but great results, that is what im watching for, if you do decide to give it a go, just try to stay positive and it will help you through the journey, plus all of us will be here to help and offer advice to you as well, good luck to you!

[Callum.]

Who told you Accutane is any use for scarring? It's not