Why Accutane Is Used
Acne is a chronic inflammatory condition involving oil glands, hair follicles, bacteria, hormones, genetics, and inflammation.
- Severe acne can cause permanent scarring.
- It may also cause significant emotional distress.
- Isotretinoin targets multiple major causes of acne at the same time.
Multiple Acne Targets
- Shrinks oil glands.
- Reduces sebum production.
- Decreases inflammation.
- Normalizes skin cell turnover.
- Reduces clogged pores.
Appropriate Candidates
- Severe nodular acne.
- Cystic acne.
- Scarring acne.
- Persistent acne despite other therapies.
- Acne causing significant psychosocial distress.
Expected Treatment Timeline
- Month 1: dryness and possible acne flare.
- Months 2–3: gradual improvement.
- Months 4–6: significant clearing.
- Some patients require longer treatment.
- Many patients remain clear for years after treatment.
Common Side Effects
Common effects are usually manageable and reversible.
- Dry lips, dry skin, dry eyes, or dry nose.
- Mild nosebleeds.
- Sun sensitivity.
- Muscle aches or joint pain.
- Temporary worsening of acne.
Dry Lips & Skin Care
- Use Vaseline, Aquaphor, or similar products frequently.
- Reapply lip moisturizer throughout the day and before bedtime.
- Use gentle cleansers and thick moisturizers.
- Avoid harsh exfoliants, acne scrubs, alcohol-based toners, and aggressive skin treatments.
Eye Care & Sun Protection
- Artificial tears may be required.
- Contact lens intolerance can occur.
- Report persistent visual symptoms to your physician.
- Wear SPF 30 or higher daily.
- Avoid tanning beds and limit excessive sun exposure.
Laboratory Monitoring
Blood tests may be ordered to monitor liver enzymes, cholesterol, triglycerides, and other laboratory values.
- Follow instructions regarding fasting blood work.
- Complete scheduled testing as directed.
- Discuss all supplements and medications with your healthcare provider.
Liver, Triglycerides & Cholesterol
- Isotretinoin may increase liver enzymes.
- Limiting or avoiding alcohol is recommended.
- Elevated triglycerides may occur.
- Severe triglyceride elevations can rarely lead to pancreatitis.
- Follow dietary recommendations and complete monitoring.
When to Seek Immediate Care
- Severe abdominal pain.
- Nausea or vomiting with significant pain.
- Pain radiating to the back.
- Difficulty breathing or severe allergic reaction.
- Severe chest pain, loss of consciousness, or other medical emergencies.
Mood & Emotional Well-Being
Mood changes, anxiety, depression, irritability, or serious emotional concerns have been reported in some patients.
Patients and family members should monitor for changes and notify the clinic immediately if concerns arise.
Pregnancy Prevention
Isotretinoin can cause severe birth defects. Patients who can become pregnant must strictly follow pregnancy prevention requirements.
- Notify the clinic immediately if pregnancy occurs or is suspected.
- Discuss contraception options with your healthcare provider.
- Use reliable contraception exactly as instructed.
Medication & Supplement Safety
- Avoid vitamin A supplements.
- Discuss antibiotics and all new medications with your physician.
- Use caution with herbal supplements.
- Discuss protein powders, creatine, pre-workout products, and performance-enhancing supplements before use.
Exercise & Sports
Most patients can continue normal exercise. Some patients experience muscle soreness or joint pain.
- Reduce intensity if symptoms become significant.
- Notify the clinic if symptoms are severe.
- Discuss supplements with your physician before use.
Cosmetic Procedures
- Inform healthcare providers that you are taking isotretinoin.
- Discuss laser procedures, chemical peels, cosmetic treatments, and elective surgery with your dermatologist before proceeding.
- Waxing may injure fragile skin during treatment.
- Discuss tattoos and piercings with your physician before proceeding.
Blood Donation & Night Driving
- Do not donate blood during treatment.
- Do not donate blood for at least one month after discontinuation.
- Rarely, night vision may be impaired.
- Use caution driving at night if you notice visual changes.
When to Call the Clinic
- Severe headaches.
- Visual changes.
- Concerning mood or behavioural changes.
- Severe muscle pain.
- Persistent abdominal pain.
- Severe rash.
- Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy.
- Any concerning symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can acne worsen before improving? Yes.
- Can I wear makeup? Yes, preferably non-comedogenic products.
- Can I exercise? Yes, unless symptoms become significant.
- Can I drink alcohol? It is best minimized.
- Will my acne return? Some patients relapse, but many remain clear for years.
- Can I have surgery? Discuss this with your physician.
- Can I wear contact lenses? Usually yes, but dryness may occur.
Parents of Teenagers
Parents should monitor treatment adherence, mood, academic performance, social withdrawal, and emotional well-being.
Encourage open communication throughout therapy and notify the clinic if concerns arise.
After Treatment
- Dryness gradually improves after treatment.
- Continue good skin care practices.
- Attend follow-up appointments.
- Some patients require maintenance therapy or future courses.
Final Safety Reminders
- Never share medication.
- Keep appointments.
- Complete laboratory testing.
- Contact SimcoDerm with concerns.
- Follow instructions from your dermatologist and healthcare team.
Questions or Concerns?
Treatment decisions should always be made in consultation with your healthcare team. Please contact SimcoDerm with concerns or new symptoms during treatment.
SimcoDerm Medical & Surgical Dermatology Centre
705-503-6333