Acutane or not?

[Janete]

I am 25 yrs old and have had acne for 5 yrs. I think it's pretty bad but others say it is mild. I have been on several anti-biotics over the last year that have not been very helpful. I am currentyl on erythromicin and I am not enjoying the side effects. I'm sure the side effects of Acutane are far worse and my doctor wants to put me on Acutane if the current treatment does not work. Is there anything else I can do besides Acutane? I'm scared of the side effects it will bring. At the same time, my acne makes me very insecure and I want to find a remedy very soon!!!!!! HELP!!!

[Mui]

I have EXTREMELY bad acne, I have gone through so many different types of therapy without any help.  My doctor had put me on acutane and it made my skin horribly dry to the point of having severe blisters, extreme reddness, clusters of skin crust and an all round disscomfort leading to my severe depression.

As a result, I am in a tremendous deal of pain when I try to brush my teeth, eat, or even smile. Because of my pain I choose to stop taking acutane, was this a wise choice? or is there anything that can help or reduce the side effects that I am experiencing?  Is there anything other than acutane?

Please help me, I am 16 yrs old without many options
write back or email: ***@****

[niki]

Hi!, I'm 15 yrs. old, and i have a medium case of acne, since about 2 yrs. ago! i have absolutely tried everything, i have read these reviews and they seem petrifying, can all these side affects really happen? my sisters on it and has been seeing pretty good results, but i have more of a rashy acne, is it right for me? i heard if you take if for about 5 mos. your acne clears up and never comes back, is that true? pleasssseeeeeeeeeeee write back and give me answers, that would be much appreciated to not only me, but everyone!Thanks!:)

[lina]

I underwent a treatment with accutane several years ago for severe acne, and when i finished my course of treatment there was not a blemish is sight....
until several months ago. The acne has now returned and am trying a course with Orthotricycline to clear it up.
My biggest concern isn't only the acne, but have developed some untoned areas on my face, blotches of dark skin....like a pregnancy mask. I'm wondering if those will get worse with the new treatment and if it was a result of the accutane.
anyone know??

[Julie]

This message is for the people that have been on acutane for extended periods of time-some mentioned being on it for a year or more. Acutane is a serious drug and should not be taken carelessly, I would consult the opinion of a different doctor if you are  advised to stay on the drug for extended periods of time.  I think the recommended time period is between 3-6 months. You should also ask your pharmacy for a print-out of the side effects related to acutane.  If you have any severe effects you should contact your doctor immediately.

[Maxine]

My husband took acutane in 1988 at age. He had a stroke. He survived thank God. He wears a brace and had limited use of left since. It was attributed to Acutane since it raises the blood pressure.   He took it for adult acne.

[Alfredo]

MY GIRLFRIEND IS CURRENTLY ON ACUTANE BUT EVER SINCE SHE HAS TAKEN THIS DRUG I HAVE SEEN HER ATTITUDE GO FOR THE WORST IS THAT POSSIBL? WHAT ARE ALL THE SIDE EFFECTS