I took Accutane for 4 years, with very low dose in the past 3 years. My face was not perfect, but much better. I stopped the treatment 5 months ago, and now I experience severe acne breakout on my face, neck, and chest, with very oily skin and scalp. What should I do now? Does this mean I'm now dependent on Accutane?
February 10, 2009
Answer: Accutane dependence People generally do not become dependent on Accutane. Frequently when patients discontinue Accutane, after 5-6 months, they will begin to develop some acne. I have never seen the acne return to the degree of severity it was prior to the course of Accutane. Approximately 1/3 of patients who are placed on a full course of Accutane, benefit from a second course, and of those who take a second course, 1/3 of them benefit from a third course. I would suggest you undergo a second course of Accutane but with a higher dose, approximately 1 mg/kg body weight (usually about 60 mg daily) as tolerated, for 5-6 months for a cumulative dose of 150 mg/kg. You may have a better chance of long-term remission with this regimen. Good luck.
Helpful 3 people found this helpful
February 10, 2009
Answer: Accutane dependence People generally do not become dependent on Accutane. Frequently when patients discontinue Accutane, after 5-6 months, they will begin to develop some acne. I have never seen the acne return to the degree of severity it was prior to the course of Accutane. Approximately 1/3 of patients who are placed on a full course of Accutane, benefit from a second course, and of those who take a second course, 1/3 of them benefit from a third course. I would suggest you undergo a second course of Accutane but with a higher dose, approximately 1 mg/kg body weight (usually about 60 mg daily) as tolerated, for 5-6 months for a cumulative dose of 150 mg/kg. You may have a better chance of long-term remission with this regimen. Good luck.
Helpful 3 people found this helpful