Accutane

[Michelle]

I have been on accutane for less than 4 months, my derm called and said stop taking it asap because my triglycerides are 900.  He said I will get blood work in 2 weeks and take it from there, are there any topicals i can begin using to keep the acne from getting bad again?  I wish that this did not happen because it was only just beginning to work.  How effective will only 4 months be?

[nichole]

I was on acutane for a few months during which time I was "not myself"  I was depressed and acted without thinking about the concequences of my actions.  Thank goodness I am ok, but I would never recomend for anyone to go on this medicine.

[Diane]

I just got off acutane.  It worked great, but I was REALLY depressed.  There were times when I wanted to commit suicide, but I always was stronger than that.  I asked my doctor if the acutane was causing my depression.  She said she never heard of acutane causing such extreme depression.  I beg to differ.  I'm feeling much better now.

[Anela Ota]

I've been reading a few articles on Accutane, and it's pretty startling.  On the new warning labels they read "depression, suicidal tendencies and suicidal ideation".  My cousin had been on Accutane for a few months and he was very depressed, and even succeeded in taking his own life.  I'd like to learn more about this drug, and why it's still on the market.  Many dermatologists don't even warn patients about this side-effects (as I've wittnessed by reading the feedbacks).  If you have any info on this matter, I'd love to hear from you.  
***@****

[james]

what are the side effects of accutane? I get migraines will accutane further induce headaches? I also heard hair loss is a possible side effect, any fact to this?

[lisa]

I completed Accutane four or five years ago.  The only side effects I still notice, besides the fact that my acne is better, is that my lips are still dry all the time and my eyes are sensitive to my contacts.

I am conserned that the Accutane is still in my system.  I am interested in trying to have children, but I am conserned about possible birth defects.  I have heard of cleft lip being caused by previous acne medicines.  Have you heard of any positive or negaative effect on new born children years after treatment with Acutane?

[Deb]

I am presently on acutane for adult acne. Why can't I tan and what does low back pain have to do with taking this medicine

[Jocelyn]

I have heard from other people that accutane can cause birth defects.  Is this possible only during the time is is being administered or is this a long term effect?  My daughter is 15 and we've tried everything, but I'm concerned about permanent side affects.

[Alan Rockoff, MD]

Michelle:

Actually, 4 months should be enough, or just about.  That's 17 week's and the standard regimen is 20.  There's no need for you to go an anything at this point.  if the acne comes back at all, it probably won't do so for a few months.  Most likely you'll be in touch with your dermatologist before then.

Best.

Dr. R