I am making this post with the hope of helping people who are struggling with Accutane-induced sexual dysfunction. I started my Roaccutane treatment in September 2020 and completed it in May 2021. I began Roaccutane as I had severe bacne, as well as mild chest and facial acne. However, I experienced sexual dysfunction side effects that continued to worsen over time after completing my Roaccutane treatment. Following medical treatment starting around Nov/Dec 2023, by May 2023 my symptoms had improved, and as of December 2024, I have FULLY recovered and now have excellent sexual function.

This post will detail my experience, including

1. My Characteristics
2. Roaccutane timeline and dosage
3. Other side effects experienced during Roaccutane treamtent
4. Sexual dysfunction symptoms
5. Things I tried that didnt work
6. Timeline of my recovery and how I ultimately recovered.

I aim to provide as much information as possible in the hopes that it helps others who are experiencing Accutane-induced sexual dysfunction. I understand that many people viewing this post will be solely searching for recovery methods, so Section 6 of this post details exactly the treatment I was prescribed which ultimately led to my recovery.

• My Characteristics

• Sex: Male
• Age During Roaccutane: 18 (started) to 19 (finished)
• Current Age: 23
• General Health: All normal; I am a very active person, exercising, eating healthy, and sleeping well. No history of acute depression or anxiety.

• Roaccutane Timeline and Dosage

• Start Date: September 20, 2020
• End Date: May 5, 2021
• First 6 weeks: 40mg/day
• Remaining weeks: 70mg/day

• Other Side Effects Experienced during Roaccutane Treatment

• Dry Lips: Still have this side effect today, but its not too bad. I use Vaseline daily. Alcohol exacerbates this.
• Dry Skin: Resolved.
• Potential Hair Thinning: Resolved.
• Joint Pain: Resolved.
• Fatigue: Resolved.

• Sexual Dysfunction Symptoms

This became apparent after completing the course, as I wasnt sexually active during treatment. During the course, I sometimes wondered if things had slightly changed in terms of libido and frequency of erections, but everything seemed normal enough to dismiss as overthinking. After completing treatment, the symptoms persisted and worsened over time. I began noticing definite sexual dysfunction in August 2021. The symptoms worsened until they plateaued around December 2021. By that point, I was certain that the sexual dysfunction I was experiencing was not psychological but due to a deeper underlying issue.

The sexual dysfunction side effects I experienced included:

• Frequency of morning erections decreased over time until I virtually never had morning erections.
• Decreased libido and sexual thoughts.
• Decline in the urge to masturbate: From approximately 3-4 times per week to once every 3 weeks, to eventually being unable to get an erection during masturbation and to no longer masturbating at all.
• For any erections that I did get - they felt very weak and only about 80% firm.
• Weak ejaculation and noticeably watery semen.
• Reduced penile sensitivity. Sexual activity and masturbation felt different.
• Occasional ejaculation during sleep, approximately every 3-4 weeks, despite the penis being flaccid.

• Things I Tried That Didnt Work

Supplements (No improvement):

• Maca root
• Ashwagandha
• Zinc
• Vitamin D
• Horny goat weed
• Melatonin

Medications:

• Viagra Connect: Minimal effect.
• Cialis: Allowed physical erections, but sensitivity remained low, and libido was still very low. I didnt feel turned on or have a sense of arousal.

• Timeline of My Recovery and How I Ultimately Recovered

1. GP Visit (Nov/Dec 2021):

• Conducted a physical examination and ordered testosterone (T-level) tests, which came back within normal ranges.

2. Referral to Urologist (Mar-May 2022):

• Performed a physical examination and found no structural issues.
• Noted slightly small testicle size.
• Referred me to an endocrinologist.

3. Endocrinology Evaluation:

• Took my T-levels. Initial levels in November 2021: 21 nmol/L.
• Checked testicle size. Initial testicle size in November 2021: 14ml (L) and 12ml (R).
• The endocrinologist noted that my testicles were smaller than expected relative to my testosterone levels, suggesting my body was not effectively utilizing testosterone.
• Prescribed melatonin for 8 weeks to see if the issue was sleep-related. No success.
• Prescribed a 6-month course of 250mcg Ovitrelle (hCG injections) weekly.

Post-Ovitrelle Treatment (hCG injections):

• T-levels increased to 30 nmol/L.
• Testicle size increased to 21ml (L) and 18ml (R).

Gradual Improvements

After starting Ovitrelle treatment, I experienced some effects of increased testosterone, such as better gym performance and beard growth. However, there was no significant improvement in sexual function initially. In March 2022, I was able to have sex without any stimulants once, and over time, I noticed a gradual increase in penile sensitivity. I also began experiencing occasional semi-morning erections.

By the end of May 2022, I had completed the treatment. At that point, I hadnt experienced any drastic improvements in sexual function, but my endocrinologist recommended giving it a few months to see if my body would naturally adjust. He noted that both my testicle size and T-levels were now in excellent ranges.

Full Recovery

By June 2022, I noticed a massive breakthrough in sexual function. Feelings of arousal and sexual thoughts returned, and I was able to have sex and ejaculate multiple times daily. While I didnt feel completely back to my pre-Accutane level of sexual function, the progress was substantial, and I was able to maintain a normal sex life.

Over time, Ive continued to see improvements. Morning erections are now frequent, occurring about five times per week, and my libido has returned to a very high level. Penile sensitivity has also significantly improved. Ejaculations are much stronger and no longer watery. Although I havent had my testosterone levels or testicle size rechecked, the expected effects of high testosteronesuch as rapid muscle gain and beard growthhave naturally lessened, suggesting my levels may have stabilized. However, my sexual function has continued to improve. As of December 2024, I can confidently say I am fully recovered and have excellent sexual function.

I hope that this posts finds the people that need it and that is of help. If anyone has any questions at all, please ask. I understand how difficult this can be and want to help as much as I can.