Must-know Things When on an Isotretinoin Program

Must know Things When on an Isotretinoin Program

Severe cystic acne vulgaris isn’t just your simple pimple problem. Instead, it’s the worst form of acne, considering the cysts and nodules on your face.

Fortunately, dermatologists have an ace up their sleeve when all other treatments have failed. That ace is called isotretinoin, also known by its name Accutane.

But before taking isotretinoin, here are a few things to know about it.

The Ideal Candidate

Suppose you have severe cystic acne vulgaris, yet your skin condition worsens despite other treatments. In that case, your doctor will likely consider isotretinoin.

First, however, you and your doctor must agree about its use since it has its side effects and complications, significantly when misused.

Isotretinoin involves more tests for women than men because the medication can cause severe congenital disabilities in pregnant women. You must then be aware of several preventive measures, including:

  • Undergo a complete medical history to ensure that, indeed, you can benefit from the medication
  • Take two pregnancy tests to rule out your pregnancy
  • Use two forms of birth control, usually a condom and the pill, while you’re on the drug

Of course, the ideal candidate is an individual with a strong sense of responsibility for their well-being. You must communicate with your doctor, comply with your medication program, and undergo laboratory work, among other duties.

Therefore, your active participation in your medication is a must!

The Best Time to Take It

When you think about it, you will experience adverse effects from taking isotretinoin regardless of the time you take it. During the colder months, the dryness of isotretinoin use may be unbearable. Still, the increased sun sensitivity in warmer months can also produce the same experience.

As for the treatment duration, you and your doctor can discuss the matter. You can take, for example, 20-milligram doses for eight months or take 120-milligram doses for four months. But, of course, you have to weigh the costs and benefits of a shorter or longer treatment plan.

It would be best to prepare for the side effects, including harsh skin dryness, especially around the eyes and lips. In addition, it would be best if you were extra vigilant about applying a facial moisturizer regularly throughout the day to reduce it.

You should also immediately inform your doctor of severe side effects and undergo the required blood tests, such as liver inflammation, increased fats present in the blood, and change in red or white blood cell counts.