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I've Been off Accutane for Some Time Now but my Acne is Coming Back

Been off accutane for months and my acne is coming back. Is it possible to take my leftover 40 mg dose once a day like I have been? I have quite a bit leftover Bc my physician gave me the option of taking once or twice daily

Doctor Answers 4

Bang for your Buck!

November 9th, 2011
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Accutane helps most people the first go-round, but there are patients who require a second course for a more permanent cure of the problem----but the key  is being on the correct dose for your weight, and the correct number of months----usually 5.   Go to see your derm again---and start over if necessary with a second full course, rather than trying to take a few here and there.  You'll get much more bang for your buck by doing it the right way---and maybe never have to take anything for acne again!

Tobi B. Richman-Steinhardt, MD


Boca Raton Dermatologic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 1 review

Accutane needs Physician Supervision

August 16th, 2011
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Accutane (Isotretinoin) should only be used while under the direct supervision of your physician-- this is to ensure that your treatment is both safe and effective.  The Ipledge system was developed to ensure your safety while taking this medicine.

Jeffrey C. Poole, MD

Jeffrey C. Poole, MD
Metairie Dermatologic Surgeon
5.0 out of 5 stars 6 reviews

Only take Accutane under the supervision of a doctor

August 10th, 2011
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I do not recommend restarting Accutane on your own. In fact, this is a violation of you ipledge agreement. It is not safe. Work with your doctor and do your lab tests to monitor for side effects. It sounds like your acne may be returning because you did not complete the course. Whether your doctor said to take it once or twice a day the total amount of drug you take should be the same. If you take it once a day, you would take it for twice as long. Again, visit your doctor. Good luck! Dina D. Strachan, MD. NYC dermatologist. 212-627-1004
Dina D. Strachan, MD

Dina D. Strachan, MD
New York Dermatologist
3.3 out of 5 stars 10 reviews

Please check with your doctor before you start back on accutane,

August 9th, 2011
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There are many things that should be done to have an treatment that is safe and effective, Please check with your doctor before you take your left over Accutane capsules,

Mark Taylor, MD

Mark Taylor, MD
Salt Lake City Dermatologic Surgeon
4.1 out of 5 stars 16 reviews

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.