Is my Acne Severe Enough to Take Accutane?

Question

I have 4 cystic pimples right now and plenty of other ones. I've used almost every topical acne prescription there is. I've taken tetracycline, doxycycline and started taking 50 mg minocycline twice daily, a month ago.

	I saw little difference after about 2 weeks, then it seemed to get worse. I know I need to stay on it longer to see full results but how long should that take and is this experience normal?

	And if it doesn't work, should I take Accutane? How long should that take to show results?

Azin Meshkinpour, MD, MPH, FAAD · Answer

Oral antibiotics do take time to see the full effect.  I recommend 2 months before changing treatment.  If your acne can not be controlled with the oral and/or topical treatments, you and your Dermatologist can consider if you are a good candidate for Accutane.

Jacqueline Calkin, MD · Answer

Although your acne is not severe, because it has proven refractory to other treatments you are a candidate for Accutane. I would consider it. If there is any scarring with your acne, then I would strongly suggest it. Best to you.

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