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Day 29
Tomorrow I meet with my derm and I will be taking my last two pills of month one. I'm kind of excited. I just hope my blood work is fine. No reason it shouldn't be, I guess.
Nothing has changed regarding my skin. The only active zit on my face (the one that set up camp on my left cheek) is SLOWLY flattening out. S l o w l y . . . That sucker is getting Neosporin'd tonight to see if that helps any.
The bumps on my left cheek are still lingering. Hopefully my derm can tell me what that's all about. I don't mind them as long as they're not zits waiting to strike!
I still have blackheads on my nose and chin. Some have gone away. New ones have surfaced. Nothing noticeable, so I don't pay attention.
And that's pretty much all that's going on in my exciting Accutane-filled life. 
Good luck at your appointment tomorrow!! I am sure your blood work is good
Yay!! Congrats on finishing month 1
Thanks! 😀
Sawwweeeet!!! I love how it's really not such a big deal being on this medicine, when you think about it. Sometimes I wish I had never read that Accutane bad experiences log because overall, this medicine is not as bad as say...prednisone. That shit is rough....
I agree. I mean, anything could happen. It's good to know the possible risks, but I think I let it freak me out too much. My step-dad doesn't believe in going to the doctor or taking medicine or anything like that. He didn't say anything about me taking Accutane, but then again, I never told him much about it. Although, over the last month he has heard about the possible side effects and risks. The other day he told me, "You need to stop taking that stuff. Anything that can cause those kinds of problems isn't good for you." But when you think about it, there are tons of medications out there that have some of the same side effects or worse.
Good luck at your appointment tomorrow!! I am sure your blood work is good
Thanks!
Sawwweeeet!!! I love how it's really not such a big deal being on this medicine, when you think about it. Sometimes I wish I had never read that Accutane bad experiences log because overall, this medicine is not as bad as say...prednisone. That shit is rough....
I agree. I mean, anything could happen. It's good to know the possible risks, but I think I let it freak me out too much. My step-dad doesn't believe in going to the doctor or taking medicine or anything like that. He didn't say anything about me taking Accutane, but then again, I never told him much about it. Although, over the last month he has heard about the possible side effects and risks. The other day he told me, "You need to stop taking that stuff. Anything that can cause those kinds of problems isn't good for you." But when you think about it, there are tons of medications out there that have some of the same side effects or worse.
He said that? Weird. Medicine saves people's lives. Does he not believe in getting an epi-pen if you're having an allergic reaction? I mean, I'm all into natural medicine and mainly seek out those therapies, but I still believe in medicine because it's evidenced based (for the most part). My Dad is somewhat similar. He doesn't like taking meds for anything, and only goes to the doc when he has to. He was concerned about me using all these acne meds, but he knows that my sanity and happiness are more important than worrying about "what if's?" Plus, I love it how people like to act like they know what's good for you. Don't even get me started. 🙂
He said that? Weird. Medicine saves people's lives. Does he not believe in getting an epi-pen if you're having an allergic reaction? I mean, I'm all into natural medicine and mainly seek out those therapies, but I still believe in medicine because it's evidenced based (for the most part). My Dad is somewhat similar. He doesn't like taking meds for anything, and only goes to the doc when he has to. He was concerned about me using all these acne meds, but he knows that my sanity and happiness are more important than worrying about "what if's?" Plus, I love it how people like to act like they know what's good for you. Don't even get me started.
If it's for something serious, then yeah, he's fine with medicine. But for the most part, he won't take it himself. If he has a headache or a cold? He deals with it. We had two Rottweilers at our work and one bit him twice. The second bite was on his wrist and it looked terrible. He refused to go to the hospital. It wasn't until his hand swelled up that he finally went. He just hates doctors, the dentist, etc. So, he won't go.
My mom didn't think anything of Accutane when I first told her. She just said, "Well, if it's going to clear up your skin then take it." And then when she started listening to me tell her about the risks she just asked, "Are you sure you want to do this?" My grandma said the same thing. But it was worth it to me to try, obviously.
Hi Rachel! I hope your appointment went good today. Give us an update when you get a chance. I'm really not minding being on this medicine so far either as long as my bloodwork stays okay. My cholesterol and blood sugar were high after the first month so I hope that hasn't gotten any worse. I get my bloodwork done next week and then my next derm appointment is the week after that. I'm crossing my fingers all is good. But you guys are all young so I bet you all do great with your bloodwork.
Hi Rachel! I hope your appointment went good today. Give us an update when you get a chance.
Thanks! 🙂 Everything was fine for the most part. I'll update later!
Taywer needs advice!
Everything okay??
Hi Rachel! I hope your appointment went good today. Give us an update when you get a chance.
Thanks!
Taywer needs advice!
Everything okay??
Yess.. but I have been taking the generic form of Yaz for about 2 weeks now, and I absolutely hate it! My mom got Yaz for me, the name brand which I love, and I was wondering if I'd be able to switch halfway through my pack? I really don't wanna take this any longer, but I dunno ;(
Yess.. but I have been taking the generic form of Yaz for about 2 weeks now, and I absolutely hate it! My mom got Yaz for me, the name brand which I love, and I was wondering if I'd be able to switch halfway through my pack? I really don't wanna take this any longer, but I dunno ;(
I was reading your posts on Betsy's and Katie's logs. I'm not sure. I don't see why there would be a problem since it's meant to be the same pill, however, generics can sometimes have different hormone levels than the name-brand. If you don't have too much longer on the generic, I'd probably stick with that till you're done. But if you really want to switch, ask the pharmacy or your doctor. They'll be able to help! 🙂
Hi Rachel! I hope your appointment went good today. Give us an update when you get a chance.
Thanks!
Taywer needs advice!
Everything okay??
Yess.. but I have been taking the generic form of Yaz for about 2 weeks now, and I absolutely hate it! My mom got Yaz for me, the name brand which I love, and I was wondering if I'd be able to switch halfway through my pack? I really don't wanna take this any longer, but I dunno ;(
Hey taylor -
I have changed birth controls half through packs. I've been in your exact situation. You can start a new pack right away. I mean start from the first week on what ever day on the week it is. So today for instance if you were to start the new pack, start on wednesday of the first week.
According to my doctor there really isn't a medical need to get your period at all. I am on a seasonal birth control so I get my period once every 3 months and it is barley even a period. I might have light spotting for a day. My OBGYN says that is just fine. I was also on a birth control before this and I didn't have my period for 5 years. So nothing to worry about. Just start the new pack once you get it.
Day 30
I met with my derm today. My cholesterol is high again. My triglycerides are high. And my platelet level isn't where it should be (this was an issue last time, too). He thinks my platelets are off because of dehydration and doesn't think it's anything to worry about. His father is my physician and he's also a hematologist/oncologist. My derm is going to send him my blood work and wants me to make an appointment with him to see what he thinks about my platelets.
Despite my cholesterol and triglyceride levels, he thinks I'm fine and I'm able to continue taking the drug. He thinks my skin is looking good and said I'll be better within a month.
I have one more pill left to take for month one. I was hoping to pick up my month two prescription tonight, but it looks like that won't be happening. iPledge is still waiting for confirmation from my derm. I thought the girl in the office was doing that when I left, but I guess not. And unfortunately, my derm's office closes at noon on Wednesdays, so I can't call them. I'll be calling my derm's office first thing in the morning.
Onto my skin¦ Yesterday a tiny whitehead popped up on my right cheek. The head is gone and it's just a little red bump now. Last night I felt a small bump on the left side of my chin. I put some salicylic acid on it. It's still there, but it hasn't surfaced yet. I'm keeping my fingers crossed I can kill it before it makes an appearance.
I took some photos to show my progress after one month. Other than what I just mentioned, there are a few unnoticeable bumps from old pimples. My main issue right now is the red marks I have. They aren't that noticeable in these photos though.
You are looking good!! Your skin seems to be responding really well! Lucky Duck! I would agree with your dermatologist you should be happier with your skin in a months time. Seriously you are clearing up great 
Bummer about your levels being too high! I hope that you can figure out why your platelets level is off. Kind of nice that your dermatologist is related to your GP so information can be shared easily between the two if them. Every time I need to get records sent from one place to the other things get messed up. I would imagine that things are smoother when they actually want to work with one another. It is great that he wasn't concerned enough about them that we wanted to take you off the medication. I suppose since the levels were off before you started Accutane, it is probably not the medication affecting your levels. Hope it gets figured out soon!
Stupid iPledge is always the cause of not getting medication when you think you are supposed to be! Things would be so much smoother if they weren't involved at all. I think a new system needs to be arranged because that one isn't working. Pain in the butt. I hope that mine goes smooth tomorrow because I am out of meds. I didn't even have any to take today, the sooner I get my hands on that medication the better.
Yay for finishing month 1
Day 30
I met with my derm today. My cholesterol is high again. My triglycerides are high. And my platelet level isn't where it should be (this was an issue last time, too). He thinks my platelets are off because of dehydration and doesn't think it's anything to worry about. His father is my physician and he's also a hematologist/oncologist. My derm is going to send him my blood work and wants me to make an appointment with him to see what he thinks about my platelets.
Despite my cholesterol and triglyceride levels, he thinks I'm fine and I'm able to continue taking the drug. He thinks my skin is looking good and said I'll be better within a month.
I have one more pill left to take for month one. I was hoping to pick up my month two prescription tonight, but it looks like that won't be happening. iPledge is still waiting for confirmation from my derm. I thought the girl in the office was doing that when I left, but I guess not. And unfortunately, my derm's office closes at noon on Wednesdays, so I can't call them. I'll be calling my derm's office first thing in the morning.
Onto my skin Yesterday a tiny whitehead popped up on my right cheek. The head is gone and it's just a little red bump now. Last night I felt a small bump on the left side of my chin. I put some salicylic acid on it. It's still there, but it hasn't surfaced yet. I'm keeping my fingers crossed I can kill it before it makes an appearance.
I took some photos to show my progress after one month. Other than what I just mentioned, there are a few unnoticeable bumps from old pimples. My main issue right now is the red marks I have. They aren't that noticeable in these photos though.
Your skin looks amazing! 🙂
Yay for completing month one!! Your skin looks great and I'm sure in a another month it'll be even better. I agree with Betsy, you're so lucky your doctors are related and it's so easy for them to work together. It's like you have your own medical team! I hope the platelet thing is due to dehydration cuz that's easy to fix.
You look amazing!! I hope your platelet stuff gets sorted out. I am thinking of you!
Your skin looks amazing!
Yay for completing month one!! Your skin looks great and I'm sure in a another month it'll be even better. I agree with Betsy, you're so lucky your doctors are related and it's so easy for them to work together. It's like you have your own medical team! I hope the platelet thing is due to dehydration cuz that's easy to fix.
Thanks, ladies! 😀
You are looking good!! Your skin seems to be responding really well! Lucky Duck! I would agree with your dermatologist you should be happier with your skin in a months time. Seriously you are clearing up great
Bummer about your levels being too high! I hope that you can figure out why your platelets level is off. Kind of nice that your dermatologist is related to your GP so information can be shared easily between the two if them. Every time I need to get records sent from one place to the other things get messed up. I would imagine that things are smoother when they actually want to work with one another. It is great that he wasn't concerned enough about them that we wanted to take you off the medication. I suppose since the levels were off before you started Accutane, it is probably not the medication affecting your levels. Hope it gets figured out soon!
Stupid iPledge is always the cause of not getting medication when you think you are supposed to be! Things would be so much smoother if they weren't involved at all. I think a new system needs to be arranged because that one isn't working. Pain in the butt. I hope that mine goes smooth tomorrow because I am out of meds. I didn't even have any to take today, the sooner I get my hands on that medication the better.
Yay for finishing month 1
Thanks, Betsy! 😀
Yeah, I was pretty relieved he didn't want to take me off the medicine. I wouldn't have been happy with that! Although, I'm definitely going to try to lower my cholesterol over the next month. I'm not worried about the platelets, but I'm curious to see why it's screwy. I know I'm not drinking enough water. Unfortunately, I never do. 🙁 So, I'm pretty sure that's the problem.
I know! iPledge is frustrating me and it's only my second month. Lol. Last time they confirmed everything was fine right away. I was able to get my prescription that day and didn't have to worry about this. I really don't want to have to call my derm's office and fight with them to make sure it gets done so I can get my pills tomorrow. Hopefully I'll call them in the morning and they'll get right too it. It can't possibly take that much time to confirm it!
Being without pills would bother me... Fortunately, I haven't had to deal with that yet. I already checked and I'll be without pills for two days before I see my derm next month. I think I'm going to call and ask if they can move my appointment to the week before so I won't be without them, but I know they're already squeezing me in as it is. I guess I'll see.
It really would suck to make the commitment to the medication and get a month in and have to stop taking it. I would be so upset! So I am really glad you are still able to continue on! Try eating a bowl of Cheerios every morning that is supposed to lower your cholesterol With the platelets I hope it is a easy fix like drinking more water! That is for sure something you can handle. I find that if I get those little packets of iced tea or crystal light that you empty into a bottle of water I drink more water throughout the day. Or even kool aid, just something with taste because water on its own can get real boring.
My doctors office thankfully does the ipledge thing right away, after I do the whole chart thing with my nurse and she confirms I'm not knocked up she calls the doctor in and then she goes and does my ipledge info. So before I am even out of the room the ipledge stuff is all taken care of! Hopefully things continue that way, because I'll freak if I have to go more days without pills lol. I sound like a addict I hope by morning the ipledge thing is taken care of without you even needing to follow up on it. It is frustrating though, as a patient you have done your part and fulfilled all that you can do on your side, and you managed to do it on time. It would be nice if the doctors office could do the same.
I've tried getting my appointments moved to before I run out of pills and my doctor will have nothing to do with that. She won't see my until exactly day 30 she says she can't give me the pregnancy test until then so she can't do ipledge till then so that means no pills anyway. It makes me mad though because if you are going to be stubborn about that then make sure I am there at day 30 not at day 32. If there is no openings in your schedule then squeeze me in because that's not fair ya know! Oh well nothing I can do about it
It really would suck to make the commitment to the medication and get a month in and have to stop taking it. I would be so upset! So I am really glad you are still able to continue on! Try eating a bowl of Cheerios every morning that is supposed to lower your cholesterol
My doctors office thankfully does the ipledge thing right away, after I do the whole chart thing with my nurse and she confirms I'm not knocked up she calls the doctor in and then she goes and does my ipledge info. So before I am even out of the room the ipledge stuff is all taken care of! Hopefully things continue that way, because I'll freak if I have to go more days without pills lol. I sound like a addict
I've tried getting my appointments moved to before I run out of pills and my doctor will have nothing to do with that. She won't see my until exactly day 30 she says she can't give me the pregnancy test until then so she can't do ipledge till then so that means no pills anyway. It makes me mad though because if you are going to be stubborn about that then make sure I am there at day 30 not at day 32. If there is no openings in your schedule then squeeze me in because that's not fair ya know! Oh well nothing I can do about it
I'd be upset, too! I mean, the thought of stopping this drug at the end of my course is scary. I sure wouldn't want to stop now! Lol.
Thanks for the tip about Cheerios! I'll have to do that. I actually love oatmeal, which I know helps lower cholesterol. The only bad thing is, no one can make oatmeal that tastes as good as my great-grandma's. I do exactly what she does and it STILL doesn't taste like hers. Maybe I'll have to go to her house every morning and get her to cook for me. 😛
That's great your derm's office takes care of iPledge while you're still there. That's much easier! I guess because my derm only works in the mornings on Wednesdays, the woman who handles iPledge stuff never got around to it. I called this morning and she confirmed everything right away, thankfully! I don't need to fight with them all day! I already answered my questions, so I'll pick up my prescription later today. What's weird though... You know how we have a seven day window to pick up our prescriptions every month? Today and tomorrow are my last days to get my prescription. Even though it was just confirmed today. When does that seven day window start?
I also got my appointment rescheduled for next month. I was supposed to go in on Monday the 16th, but I would be out of pills on Friday the 13th. (Friday the 13th! Eek!) She rescheduled my appointment for Friday, so that'll be good. She started going on about the seven day window and my derm was going to be out of town that week and whatnot. I didn't understand anything she was telling me. 
But since she handles all the iPledge stuff, it should be fine to have my appointment that Friday instead. That's 30 days from now. If I went on that Monday, it would have been 33 days from now.
That's kind of weird how she won't see you until exactly 30 days. I have to get my blood work done outside of my derm's office. He doesn't do that. So, I have to get blood work done three days before my appointment. It's not like these appointments for Accutane take a long time. They can surely squeeze people in! Every single time the receptionist at my derm's office says, "Well, we're going to squeeze you in." Like, I get it. You're busy. Squeeze me in. Lol. At least she's nice about it, I guess!
Rachel! Gorgeous! I'm so happy it's working for you. 
Bummer about the blood levels. One of the most overlooked ways to lower your cholesterol is to exercise. Try to do some cardio to the point where you're sweating, for about 30-45 minutes a few times a week. This will help lower triglycerides, too. Overall, decreasing sugar (soda, candy, sweetened beverages like mochas, etc.) and even switching from white rice to brown rice will help lower your triglycerides. The worst thing is to drink alcohol, but it doesn't sound like you're boozing it up. lol
Another great way to improve your levels is to eat more fish, and less whole-fat dairy and red meat. I know you said you take your pills with milk, but maybe there's another way to just drink it with water but make sure the meal has fat in it instead? These are just some suggestions...milk isn't a huge problem, but if you want dramatic results, decreasing dairy and increasing nuts, avocados, and fish will give you better cholesterol levels (or at least we hope!).
<3
p.s. Green tea lowers cholesterol, too!