Until which age is it safe to take Accutane?

Question

Until which age is it safe to take accutane?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

There is no upper age limit for Accutane (isotretinoin).

It is FDA‑approved for patients age 12 and older, and it can be safely used in teens, adults, and even older adults when appropriately prescribed and monitored. What matters is overall health, acne severity, medications, and lab results—not age alone.

In older patients, dermatologists may monitor a bit more closely for side effects such as dryness, joint aches, cholesterol, or liver enzymes, but many patients in their 30s, 40s, 50s, and beyond do very well on treatment.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Accutane is typically safe for use in patients of various ages, including adolescents and adults. There isn't a specific upper age limit for taking Accutane; rather, the decision to use it is based on the individual’s health status, the severity of their acne, and their ability to tolerate the medication. The lower limit is 12 years old. 
     However, it is essential for patients of all ages to be monitored by a healthcare professional while taking Accutane due to potential side effects, including liver function changes, lipid level alterations, and others. Older adults, in particular, might need more careful monitoring due to an increased likelihood of pre-existing health conditions and the potential for drug interactions.

Until which age is it safe to take Accutane?

Answers (2)

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