Accutane can completely cure severe, cystic acne! But this medication carries severe risks and is not a decision that should be taken lightly. This acne treatment comes in several strengths, and can be taken once or twice a day. Your prescription depends on several factors including how much you weigh.
If you are female, you will be warned that you can absolutely not become pregnant during treatment. To do so can cause extreme birth defects in babies. In fact, you will not be allowed to begin this acne treatment therapy until you have had blood work done, making sure your blood is OK to withstand treatment and that you are not pregnant. You will also have ongoing pregnancy tests during your acne treatment. You must use birth control while you are taking this medication.
Your insurance may cover the cost of some or all of your prescriptions
There are also several other major potential side effects, all of which your doctor should inform you of. These can include liver disease, depression, impaired night vision, elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. The milder side effects include dry lips (you will need lip balm with sunscreen), dry skin (you may need to moisturize and use a humidifier), and several others which you will also be informed of. You should use an extremely gentle soap or cleanser, and cleanse twice a day. Ask your dermatologist about how often you should moisturize.
This acne treatment therapy lasts for a 20 week period, after which your acne may be completely clear, may almost be clear and continue to improve, or may require a second 20 week course of therapy. As with Retin A, during the early stages of this acne treatment you may notice your condition will worsen. But this is definitely worth it! The result should thrill you! If your doctor or you feel that this acne treatment is too risky to treat your severe acne, you may want to find a specialist that offers blue light therapy, which has been said to be just as effective as Accutane for treating severe acne.