Isotretinoin (Accutane®)
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Isotretinoin is a vitamin A derivative called a retinoid that is taken orally and is approved only for severe acne. It is thought...

Isotretinoin is a vitamin A derivative called a retinoid that is taken orally and is approved only for severe acne. It is thought to clear acne primarily through its ability to permanently reduce skin oil (sebum) production.

Isotretinoin is available in capsule form and is usually taken twice a day. Your physician will prescribe an initial dose, and this dose may increase or decrease depending on the response to treatment and side effects.

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January 7, 2008

Pros:

clear, non-oily skin when NOTHING ELSE worked

Cons:

took about 4 months to work, dry skin during treatment, extremely chapped lips, frequent nosebleeds, aching joints

here is my brief story: I started off with mild acne and used products like benzaclin and duac, 2.5% benzoil peroxide creams, to help. Those didn't work, and when my acne became "moderate", I was put on doxycycline. After four months of doxycycline and retin-a alternating with benzoil peroxide, my acne worsened. I tried natural treatments, basically every acne product on the market. It wouldn't go away. After much contemplation, I was put on accutane. Fast forward four months-- perfect skin. People telling me that they want my skin. What a turnaround! I do have some minor scarring but it's not much at all, and it is very easy to cover up. I went from severe acne with no hope to perfect skin. If you've tried what I had tried and it didn't work, go on accutane immediately. You deserve it.
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January 5, 2008

Pros:

No oil! I could literally put a napkin on my face and see it through a light. Is starting to clear crap up.

Cons:

dry lips, joint pain. Would recommend pain killers and lots. Funny because I'm an athlete. Depression-none, thats just a mental thing. You should probably be stable and in good health.

I've had moderate/sever acne for a couple years now. Endless times looking in the mirror to see if those smudges and spots ever went away. I'm glad to see my face drying up and changing. I don't care about side affects at all as long as it removes this stuff off my face. Acne may not be a big deal, but really it is. I think this drug has given people there self confidence back and I will soon get there.
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January 3, 2008

Pros:

CLEAR SKIN!! that pretty much sums up the pros of accutane. =) less oily skin and hair.

Cons:

Everyone freaks about the side effects, I know I did.. But all were completely tolerable and managable... dry lips- use aquaphor, dry skin- all you need is a good moisturizer, muscle, joint pains- just remember to drink plenty of water!

My skin is no longer an issue for me and it is such a good feeling. It seems so unreal how bad my face used to be, but while I was going through my bad stages of acne, it seemed like the end of the world, as I'm sure it does for alot of people. I've had minimal acne off and on for the past 4 years. I broke out so bad last summer that my mom and I finally agreed to try accutane for my skin. I had huge pimples all over and new ones everyday. I would cry when I took my makeup off and while putting it on, trying to cover it up. Everyone told me its not a big deal and I shouldnt let it change who I was, but I couldn't help not wanting to show my face in public. Now that I've been on accutane for 4 months (I'm only at 60mg a day which is very low but I am small, 5'5 110lbs) my skin is clear and I can actually go out in oublic WITHOUT any makeup and feel comfortable. Trust me this medication is worth it, and don't worry about the side effects, jsut take extra care of your body while on it.
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January 1, 2008

Pros:

clears up skin !!!!!!

Cons:

some side effects

I've been taking accutane for about 3 1/2 weeks. The 2nd week my face started to clear up then a sudden break out I just pray to god that this will boost my confidence and will allow me to minister to others with no worries. God has never let me down and i know this is a way god will demonstrate his love to me and clear my skin before the 6 months are up :) can i hear a amen
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December 29, 2007

Pros:

None yet, it's only been a month.
Completely free as i'm under 16 so get it free on the NHS. No contraceptives and its so much easier not using gels and creams every day. I dont have to wash my hair as often as its just not getting greasy.

Cons:

very dry lips, dry skin but not that bad. Initial breakout was pretty bad. Blood tests every month (i am terrified of needles)!

I have suffered from acne since the age of 11 and im now 14. I have been on oxytetracycline, eyrythromycin and minocycline and ive tried so many gels and creams. None of them worked so now im on 20mg accutane. Its been a month and so far the oil has stopped and my initial breakout is passed and is just starting to clear up. I've read other reviews where people are saying that all of their blackheads have gone but i've suddenly got more all over my nose, cheeks and chin and they are really really obvious. :( Hopefully these will go. I dont know what ill do if this doesnt work.
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December 20, 2007

Pros:

I've been on sotret for about 2 months and my acne got worse at first. Now it seems to be getting better and I hope it continues.

Cons:

Dry lips and skin but that's it. For clear skin it is completely worth it.

It's worth a try.
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December 18, 2007

Pros:

During the first weeks you can feel the changes in your skin. At the end of treatment no oil and no signs of acne in your skin. seriously.

Cons:

depression, very dry skin and lips but that's not a big deal. Remember: to be beautiful you need to suffer.

It really works. During the treatment I thought of giving up but the result is incredible. I feel so much better with the people around me, i totally forget my acne problems. Thank you!
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December 16, 2007

Pros:

Clears any type of skin completely ~ The only drug 100% affective :)

Cons:

Tons of side effects including dry lips (no big deal), dry eyes, dry hair (may cause breakage and thinning...only while on treatment), MOOD CHANGES: IRRETABLITY, DEPRESSION, INCREASE IN AGGRESSION, WITHDRAWL FROM FRIENDS AND FAMILY...the list goes on

Im in my second month of treatment and my skin has completely cleared up. I recommend this drug to anyone who is suffering from acne that is negatively affecting thier life. The side effects absolutely suck...but, I feel that they are worth it due to the results that I see in my skin:) The most unbearable side effect I have experienced is my change in mood. I have become extremely reclusive from friends and family...everything seems to get on my nerves. Because I know what is causing this...I am able to keep it under control. Also, because I am a bartender...I am asked to drink with costumers at work occasionally...this should def be avoided. I have noticed that my mood changes get increasingly worse when I drink. In conclusion, if you can deal with being crazy for a few months while on Accutane, this drug is for you because it really does clear up your skin:) THANK YOU!
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December 15, 2007

Pros:

my face looks 90% better. I am at the end of my second month, and i feel fine! No mood changes, if anything i feel happier because my face looks better!

Cons:

nightmares if you take it close to bed time, very dry lips, have to take joint support vitamins. dr. appointments every month.

so far i am very happy with it!
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December 14, 2007

Pros:

my face is SO clear, i don't have to wear foundation, and still look good!

Cons:

face readness, back chest and joint pain, emotionally unstable, dry lips, dry body, dry eyes, dry hands

OMG i've been on it for a month and a week now and it's amazing, the only thing i don't like about it is the side effects oviously, and not being able to drink. but i do love the fact that it's only 5-6 months and your suppose to be ance free!, i here so of your storys of how accutane hasn't worked and i hope im not one of you, but good luck, and i really hope that my scars go away because there everywhere!
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Finding a Doctor

The right dermatologist can make a big difference to your patient experience and the success of your acne treatment plan. Here are the steps to find a dermatologist who is a good fit:

  1. Use the search feature on the American Academy of Dermatology website to look for board-certified dermatologists in your area, and filter the search results for doctors with a special interest in treating acne.
  2. Read online patient reviews of any dermatologists you are considering and ask people you know whether they have any experience with these dermatologists.
  3. Do your research and go to your first appointment with questions prepared.
  4. Listen to what your gut feeling tells you once you see a dermatologist in person. If you are not completely comfortable, try a different dermatologist.
Find a Doctor Using The American Acacemy of Dermatology Website

Finding a Doctor

Only a select few plastic surgeons specialize in acne scar revision surgery. Be certain to find a provider who specializes in acne scar repair and who is passionate and experienced in this area.

Be sure to:

  • Look at before and after photos, the more the better, especially patients with similar scarring to your own.
  • Be realistic about results. Look for improvement, not a cure.

Questions to ask a potential scar revision specialist:

  • Are you board certified? Be certain that they are board certified.
  • How long have you been performing these procedures? Normally, the more experience the better, however, some younger surgeons may be more on top of the latest procedures.
  • Can I speak to some of your other patients? Ask for references for several patients who had similar scarring and speak to them about the process and their satisfaction with results.

Red flags:

  • Their story changes: As you discuss different treatment options, if they tend to change their mind easily, or agree with whatever you say, consider this a red flag. A confident, experienced surgeon will possess strong, unwavering opinions.
  • Your gut tells you "no": Trust your gut. If you just don't feel that the doctor is the right fit, trust that and move on. On the other hand, if you feel they are the perfect specialist for you, trust that feeling.
Find a Doctor Using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Website