Accutane - Dosage? Supplements? Check ups?

[ugdanel]

I heard the effectivesnees of accutane is increased with a twice daily dosage. True? I will be taking 40mg a day, once a day. Would it be better to take 20 mg twice a day?

Also, is it ok to take glucosamine for my joints while on accutane?

Lastly, should I be getting a monthly blood test? Or any other precautionary measures?

[loiloi]

Hi. Accutane is absorbed better if it is taken twice daily with food and a glass of milk.
It is ok to take supplements as long as they do not contain Vitamin A.
You should get regular blood tests to check your liver function and cholesterol levels.
Other necessary precautions are to avoid exposure to UV rays, avoid too much alcohol, and not to take tetracycline antibiotics whilst on Accutane or for 5 weeks afterwards. Female Accutane patients must use two forms of contraception whilst on Accutane and for 5 weeks afterwards. Male patients do not need to abstain from unprotected sex but must not donate blood in case it is given to a pregnant women.
Avoid cosmetic procedures such as laser treatment whilst on Accutane and for 6 months afterwards due to the increased risk of scarring.
Use bland cleansing and moisturising treatments, I recommend Eucerin, Lutsine and La Roche-Posay products. For dry lips use Elizabeth Arden 8 hour cream or Vaseline.
Your eyes may become dry and you may have to wear glasses instead of contact lenses.
Eloise.

[ugdanel]

Thanks for your help loiloi. Very informative.  Can I split a 40mg pill to take it twice a day? Do you know anything about generics? Any recommendations?