Will being on the bcp (Diane 35) affect my outcome on accutane?

Question

I have been on accutane for one month, alternating doses of 40mg and 80mg every other day. I also started back on Diane 35 when I started this course of treatment. I had been off the pill for a year and a half. I'm concerned that when I finish my accutane course & if I decide to stop the pill after that my acne will return. I understand that accutane works in a different manner but is it possible that the bcp helps mask acne?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's great that you're proactive about understanding how your medications might interact and affect your acne treatment outcomes. Here's some information that might help clarify your concerns:

Accutane (Isotretinoin): This medication is highly effective for treating severe acne by reducing the size and activity of sebaceous glands, decreasing oil production, and preventing clogged pores. It offers long-term remission for many patients after completing the course.

Diane 35 (Cyproterone Acetate and Ethinyl Estradiol): This birth control pill also helps manage acne by regulating hormones that can contribute to acne formation. It reduces androgen levels, which can decrease sebum production, a factor in acne development.

Combined Effects: While Accutane works directly on the skin and oil glands, Diane 35 addresses hormonal aspects that can contribute to acne. Using both can provide a comprehensive approach to treating acne, especially if hormonal imbalance is a contributing factor.

Post-Treatment Considerations: After completing Accutane, many patients experience long-term improvement in their acne. However, if hormonal imbalance was a significant factor in your acne, stopping Diane 35 might lead to a recurrence of acne symptoms. It's important to monitor your skin's response after discontinuing the pill and consult with your dermatologist for personalized advice.

Long-Term Management: If you're concerned about acne returning after stopping Diane 35, discuss long-term acne management strategies with your dermatologist. They might recommend continuing with a different hormonal treatment or other topical or oral medications to maintain your results.

In summary, while Accutane and Diane 35 work through different mechanisms, they can complement each other during treatment. It's crucial to have a follow-up plan with your dermatologist to address any potential recurrence of acne after stopping the pill.

Will being on the bcp (Diane 35) affect my outcome on accutane?

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Answers (1)

More Accutane Questions

I am currently taking accutane 40mg every two days. I have acne scars & pigmentation, can I start laser to remove scarring?

I got Accutane from a friend and want to begin taking 30mg a day, how long should I continue this course?

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WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS