Accutane (Isotretinoin)

Accutane is a medicine for severe acne and acne that is unresponsive to alternative treatments such as topical creams and oral antibiotics.

The generic name for Accutane is isotretinoin. Other brands include Accufine®, Amnesteem®, Claravis™, Myorisan®, Absorica®, and Zenatane™.

Accutane attacks excess oil production, clogged pores in the skin, too much of the bacteria P. acnes, and inflammation.

Treatment with Accutane can be a cure for acne in about 95% of patients. Some patients do not clear after one course of treatment, and the second course of treatment may be an option.

Patients are on Accutane for approximately 5-6 months depending on weight and how well the side effects of the medication are tolerated.

You will face side effects in case of overdose only. Just follow the dosage regimen to avoid possible negative effects. Common side effects include dry skin, dry eyes, chapped lips, dry nasal passages resulting in nosebleeds, and diminished ability to see in the dark.

The usual starting dose is 0.5mg per kilogram body weight per day (0.5 mg/kg/day). So if you weigh 60kg, your dose will usually start at 30mg a day. Usually, you take isotretinoin capsules once or twice a day. Swallow the capsules whole with a drink of water. Take isotretinoin capsules with food to make sure they work properly. It's best to take them straight after a meal or snack. A treatment course of isotretinoin capsules usually lasts for 16 to 24 weeks (around 4 to 6 months). Acne will usually keep getting better for up to 8 weeks after stopping treatment. Most people have clear skin after that time, but some will need another round of treatment.

Accutane is known to cause severe birth defects if a woman takes the medication while pregnant. You should not take Accutane if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant in the near future.

Many people worry that Accutane can cause mental health conditions. There have been a few reports of patients developing depression and having thoughts of suicide while taking Accutane. Research shows that people who have severe acne often become depressed. This is true for people who have never taken Accutane. There is not enough evidence to determine whether this medicine can cause depression and other mental health conditions.

Patients on Accutane should not wax as it can cause permanent scarring. You must not wax while taking Accutane and for up to 6 months after you stop the medication.

Accutane can make your skin more sensitive to the sun. We recommend you wear sun protective clothing and sunscreen with at least 5% zinc oxide and SPF 30 or higher while taking Accutane.