Can accutane cause deep vein thrombosis? If so, would it harm me to continue taking accutane while on blood thinners?

Question

I had been taking accutane for 4 weeks and then on the 5th week I experienced extreme leg pain so I wen to the doctor and found out I had deep vein thrombosis. I did have surgery on my foot, which is the same leg that I have the dvt, 2 1/2 months prior, so the doctor isn't sure what caused it. He says he doesn't think continuing to take the accutane can cause anymore harm while on blood thinners, but it could after I stop the blood thinners. Should I just stop? Or is the damage already done?

Daniel Navi, MD, FAAD · Answer

A large study published in 2011 of patients taking isotretinoin concluded there was no increased risk of thromboembolic events including deep vein thromboses. Therefore, it is unlikely that isotretinoin contributed to your deep vein thrombosis. As far as taking blood thinners while on isotretinoin there are no known contraindications. I advise discussing this with your dermatologist so that proper monitoring of your blood work can be arranged while on both isotretinoin and blood thinners.

Can accutane cause deep vein thrombosis? If so, would it harm me to continue taking accutane while on blood thinners?

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