Acne affects many people’s lives, especially during their youth. Today, I would like to discuss the treatment of acne with oral Accutane, including whether it should be continued and the potential challenges that may arise during this treatment period.
First, we need to understand the initial outbreak phase associated with oral Accutane. Many patients feel fearful about this, but in reality, about 30% of patients may experience an increase in acne after starting oral Accutane. The increase in the number of acne lesions during this period is usually temporary and not a comprehensive outbreak. This is primarily because the skin is in a process of adjustment, and conditions typically improve afterward. Even if cystic acne appears during this time, it can be quickly alleviated through appropriate treatment; thus, patients should not be discouraged from undergoing Accutane therapy because of this.
Next, many patients often ask why they still experience breakouts after previously taking Accutane. This is mainly related to the dosage of the medication and the duration of treatment. To achieve optimal results, the dosage must be sufficient, and long-term use is necessary to prevent recurrence. I generally tailor the treatment plan based on the patient’s weight and the severity of the condition, and sometimes continuous treatment for more than six months is required, as this varies from person to person.
Of course, oral Accutane does have side effects, which are important for patients to understand. Since Accutane is a systemic medication, it can cause systemic effects, such as increased intracranial pressure. Special attention must be paid to potential interactions with other medications while using Accutane, especially tetracycline, as they should not be taken simultaneously. Additionally, oral Accutane may lead to elevated blood lipids and abnormal liver function tests, so regular blood tests during treatment are necessary to effectively monitor the patient’s health status.
Lastly, many women who are planning to conceive worry about the health implications of acne treatment. Some medications, such as tetracycline and oral Accutane, are contraindicated during pregnancy. Even after stopping Accutane, a period must pass before conception can occur. This situation compels patients, when choosing a treatment, to consider not only the efficacy but also the safety.
Therefore, while oral Accutane has its side effects when treating acne, many patients can still achieve good treatment outcomes under the guidance of a doctor. The key lies in following the doctor’s advice and selecting a suitable course of treatment. If there are any questions, patients should feel free to communicate with their doctor.