Steven M. Passman, MD, FAAD (retired)

Accutane 40 mg twice a day for 4 months. Height 5'2 and weight 125 lbs 1st Month- I started having the initial breakout 1 week after taking it. I had all the side effects that came with it! Joint pain, dry lips, sensitive skin, itchy skin, dry eyes, heartburn, and angular cheilitis. I was this CLOSE to quiting because I felt like I couldn't handle the side effects and the horrible initial breakouts! =( 2nd Month- Face is finally starting to clear up slowly ...been having a bad habit of popping my zit. Do not try to pop or pick, your skin layer will come off! This point my skin feels like it's shedding like a snake! My scalp has been very dry and itchy but I bought a scalp oil that has helped tremendously! 3rd Month- Face has 100 % completely cleared up and Dr has agreed to put me on just 1 more month of Accutane. Still having small breakouts on my back but no longer cystic. Side effects has lessened or either that my body has gotten used to it. 4th and Final Month!- I'm half way finishing my accutane...almost there and I can't wait! Face is still 100% clear , but my back just have 1 zit that's at it's healing stage. If my back still having small breakouts by the end of this course, I will ask my Dr if I should extend another month on taking it =/ Side effects that I have now are just dry lips. I think my body has gotten use to the medication. I will update again after I finish this month up =) So far, I am very pleased with results.