My joints crack easily on Accutane. Should I be concerned, and should I stop Accutane?

Question

When I was younger, my knees would crack if I just bent them. Having finished puberty, I have not had this problem. However, after about 2 weeks on accutane, my knees crack very easily (everytime I bend them). In general, all my joints crack very easily now. Is this a cause of concern? Should I be worried about arthirits/poor joint health due to accutane? I have read some people developing chronic joint pain due to accutane. Is there anything I can do to prevent joint damage/stop the cracking?

Cheryl M. Burgess, MD, FAAD · Answer

The cracking sound in the joints while taking Accutane can be attributed to the drying of the synovial fluid and slight inflammation of the tendons. The synovial fluid is the joint's natural lubricating substance which allows smooth movement. Anti-inflammatory medications are helpful to most people while on the medication and doesn't not appear to be long lasting once the course of Accutane is finished.

Alim R. Devani, MD, FRCPC · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is a question that we
get asked often by our patients. The bone pain side effect is very common and completely reversible when your on low dose and short term therapy. If you are on it for years, chronic side effects can occur which is not likely in your case. If it persists, decreasing the dose of accutane will likely help. If you continue on the same dose, most people improve in 4-8 weeks but some have to cut the dose down. Bone pain
without objective evidence of any abnormalities and without sequelae is
frequent in retinoid-treated patients. If it is persistent or you are worried, set up a follow up
appointment with your dermatologist.

My joints crack easily on Accutane. Should I be concerned, and should I stop Accutane?

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My joints crack easily on Accutane. Should I be concerned, and should I stop Accutane?

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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