Is my Accutane Dose Safe?

I am 42 yo cauc. female with moderate hormonal acne flares and was on Accutane (Claravis actually) 6 months ago at 40 mg one day then 80 mg the next. I did not tolerate it well after the first month (hair falling out in clumps, skin tearing with minor bumps, excessive dryness and increased cholesterol).

My dermatologist said to try 10 mg once a day or 3-4 times a week or 40 mg once a week. Which is safer/effective and how long would you suggest to continue?

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age 35-44 acne dry skin hair loss female effective safety tear

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1 Doctor Answer | Asked by Tylie in Minneapolis, MN

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Dosing of Accutane

Accutane is usually dosed in such a way as to reach an average of 1.0 mg/kg to 1/5 mg/kg daily over the six months of treatment. Doses significantly lower than this result in fewer cures and more recurrences after the treatment is finished. I usually recommend starting at 20 mg daily and going up in dose every month to reach an average of 1.0-1.5 mg/kg/day. The safety depends on your body's response to the medication. Some side effects are controllable, some are not. ... more