Do you have to have severe acne to use Accutane?


Do you have to have cystic acne to go on Accutane?

The decision to begin taking Accutane or another isotretinoin product is something you must discuss with your dermatologist. Because of its potency and possible side effects, the medication is reserved only for those with severe inflammatory or cystic acne that has failed to respond to other treatment options.

What type of acne needs Accutane?

The medicine is used to treat severe cystic and nodular acne. Deep, painful, and long-lasting acne lesions are characteristics of cystic acne. Often, this type of acne covers the face and body and is resistant to treatment by most prescription topicals and oral antibiotics.

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How long does it take Accutane to work on mild acne?

Isotretinoin capsules start to work after a week to 10 days. They work very well – 4 out of 5 people who use them have clear skin after 4 months.

When should you not take Accutane?


  1. Headaches, nausea, vomiting or blurred vision.
  2. Depression or changes in your mood.
  3. Severe stomach pain, diarrhea or bleeding from your rectum.
  4. Very dry eyes.

What can I use instead of Accutane?

One of the most promising alternatives to Accutane is Tazorac, which the FDA approved last fall and doctors say has shown dramatic results in some patients. Similar drugs, called topical retinoids, including the brands Differin and Retin-A Micro, also can help.

Who is a good candidate for Accutane?

Good candidates for isotretinoin are people who have tried other treatments with little or no success, and those who have cystic and nodular acne that leaves scars.

Is Accutane really that bad?

Thoughts on Accutane: The acne drug Accutane is one of the most dangerous products on the market today. The drug causes serious side-effects, most notably birth defects. Accutane is also one of the most effective prescription drugs available.

How hard is it to get Accutane?

As mentioned, though, it is a really difficult drug to get–before I can fill my monthly prescription, I have to get a blood test, a negative pregnancy test, have my doctor answer questions on the iPledge national database, answer a series of questions about the importance of birth control, and pick up my prescription …

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Should I let my daughter take Accutane?

For the child with severe nodular acne that could leave scars, Accutane could be a good option, but your child should be well supervised as they take it. Make sure to stay in contact with your pediatrician while this drug is prescribed, especially if your child begins having any side effects.

Does Accutane permanently cure acne?


How bad is the Accutane purge?


Is Accutane worth taking?

I highly recommend taking Accutane. Although it is hard having your skin be bad for a couple months straight, it is definitely worth it. One thing they don’t really tell you about is the blood work and pregnancy test you have to do once a month before getting your new packet for that month.

Is Accutane worth it for mild acne?

Use of isotretinoin should be considered in mild to moderate acne also, in low doses; 20 mg, alternate day seems to be an effective and safe treatment option in such cases.

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Does acne get worse on Accutane?

When you start taking isotretinoin, acne may worsen

This possible side effect is temporary. Worsening acne is a temporary side effect: When you start taking isotretinoin, acne can worsen for 1-2 months before it begins to clear. This happens with many other acne treatments.

Does acne come back after Accutane?

In some cases hormonal acne does not even respond well to treatment with Isotretinoin (Isotretinoin/Accutane). Hormonal acne is more likely to come back after a course of Roaccutane (Accutane) has successfully cleared it.