Epuris becoming less effective

Question

I have been taking Epuris for 13 weeks now but it has started becoming less effective. The first month I was taking 30mg a day and after that started on 60mg a day. The first few weeks were really great my skin looked the best it ever has. There was barely any purging just very dry and flaking skin. I feel like I need to ask my doctor to increase my dose but don't know if it's worth another $250 consultation for him to say no. I also only weight 125lbs so it might not be safe.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

It's not uncommon for patients on isotretinoin (Epuris) to experience fluctuations in their response to the medication over time. Here are a few considerations you might want to think about before deciding whether to consult your doctor:

Dosage and Weight: The dosage of isotretinoin is often calculated based on body weight, typically ranging from 0.5 to 1 mg/kg per day. At 125 lbs (approximately 57 kg), your current dose of 60 mg/day is within the typical range but on the higher end for your weight.

Cumulative Dose: The effectiveness of isotretinoin is also related to the cumulative dose over the course of treatment. Discussing your current cumulative dose with your doctor can help determine if you've reached an optimal level or if adjustments are needed.

Side Effects: Consider the side effects you're experiencing. While dry and flaking skin are common, any severe or bothersome side effects should be discussed with your physician.

Consultation Cost: If the cost of consultation is a concern, try reaching out to your doctor's office to see if they offer a brief phone consultation or other options for existing patients to discuss dosage adjustments.

Alternative Treatments: If increasing the dose is not advisable, your doctor might suggest alternative treatments or adjunct therapies to improve your skin's condition.

Ultimately, while it might seem like an additional expense, consulting with your doctor is important to ensure safe and effective treatment. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health needs and treatment progress.

Epuris becoming less effective

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Epuris becoming less effective

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.