reverse accutane effects

[tommyhawk]

Is there anything that can be done to reverse the effects of accutane.  I have had side effects from the drug since I took it in 1998.  Every doctor I've described my symptoms to has dismissed accutane as the cause.  They say that all the pain and problems that I have are from depression.  I feel like being in pain everyday has caused me to be depressed.

[loiloi]

Hi. Specifically, please tell me your symptoms and whether they have been diagnosed by a doctor. Have you been diagnosed as suffering from depression and do you take any medications for this?
Eloise x

[tommyhawk]

My symptoms are sore muscles everyday.  More severe neck and shoulder pain almost always getting worse throughout the day.  Dry sinus.  Rash,  bumps on my scalp, dry scalp.  Light sensitivity.  On top of that I feel that I do suffer from depression which varies in intensity.  The last doctor I went to see felt that I was depressed and gave me some samples of Lexapro to try.  He also dismissed the idea that Accutane has anything to do with it.  I have been considering trying the anti-depressants but am skeptical of there benifits and worried about more side effects.  Also immediately after my taking accutane I gave myself a Hernia which I had to have surgery for.  Many would not think that it was related but I do.  

[loiloi]

Hi. Accutane has been found to cause muscle and skeletal problems in long term administration. How long did you take it for, and at what does?
Although no causal link has been established, accutane patients have rarely reported depression whilst taking it and shortly after stopping. Accutane does not stay in your body for as long as people think. It results in long term remission from acne because it shrinks the oil glands and they return to their previous size very very slowly.
Your doctor will monitor your progress on anti-depressants. I was skeptical about taking mine (Venlafaxine). I didn't see how tablets could change my problems. But they did help to change how I felt about my problems.
Have you tried any medication or physio to lessen your pain? Regardless of the cause, you need to treat this discomfort.
Your skin may be drier than it was before. I recommend using La Roche-Posay products for dryness or sensitivity. Eucerin is also a good brand and they make a shampoo which will help your scalp.
Eloise x