Can I stop on the 5th month of Accutane even if my dermatologist wants me to be on it for 7-8 months?

Question

I am 23 years old 170lbs muscular & have been dealing with not even mild acne just maybe one or two persistsnt bumps that always appears on my cheeks but they blemish badly Along with oily skin / black heads. I am now on month 5 of accutane (absorica) 80mgs and have seen excellent results but I am really worried...my Dermatologist wants me on 7-8months but I feel I should be done on my 5th? She said I was 7000+ mgs so far but I know I'm not? I really want to stop on month 5 Total = 12,000mgs

Michele S. Green, MD · Answer

The recommend course for Accutane is 20 weeks and I am not sure why you need to be on the medication for 8 months.  As long as you are on the proper dosage for weight and have cleared there should be no reason to continue. Please consult an expert in acne and Accutane for the best cosmetic results. Best, Dr. Green

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

I would not recommend stopping without talking to your doctor. I can't figure out why your math and hers are so different...that's 5000mg difference. Accutane is all about the cumulative total. If you stop before you get enough total mg, you will have your acne return. So talk to your doctor. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

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