Acutane for acne? Anyone else ever been on this?

[justjumpit4]

So I went to the dermatologist today, and got some topical cream and antibiotics for my acne. He recommended Acutane though. It'll take a month of waiting. It has a lot more stuff involved because it's a more severe treatment. It has possible bad side effects, but would really clear my skin and help the scarring. I'd have to do pregnancy tests and have blood drawn monthly, but its only for 4 months.. But who else has ever used it, and how well did it work for you?

[hushchild]

I've never used it but I would highly recommend that you try everything else under the sun before you go for a treatment as drastic as accutane. It's a very severe treatment with some very serious side effects (you should really read up on these before you make your decision) especially for younger women. Try different antibiotics and a very strict morning/bedtime ritual with the appropriate topical treatments suggested by your dermatologist. Also, I would also recommend that you consider seeing a different dermatologist, not only for a second opinion but because the severity of the treatment makes it a last resort for dermatologist and the fact that he recommended it makes me a little suspicious. Good luck, and hang in there!

[slipslender]

dude. DO NOT GO THERE. that is a serious drug. as the person below me said, TRY EVERYTHING ELSE first... I'm not sure clear skin is worth the havoc that accutane wreaks on the body. try out the topical creams and the antibiotics. give yourself at least 2-3 months. my dad's a pharmacist and he's told me horror stories about what accutane's done to some people. try to avoid it at all costs.

[Anonymous]

I took it and nothing happened to me, just clear skin.

[Anonymous]

hmmm, I have not used it, but it depends on the type of acne and when it occurs, everyone gets acne but it is a hormonal thing so sometimes it is a symptom of your cycle. My friend uses the Neutrogena Skin ID or at least she did for a while and she liked it a lot. But I know if you just google it you will be able to find people who have used it and have info that can help you, good luck!