Acne coming back one year after taking accutane. Should my doctor consider prescribing it to me again?

Question

Hi, I've been on accutane 40mg for 5 months and i stopped it one year ago. I didnt have cystic acne but i've had acne for years. Now its been a year and it is clearly coming back. Ive had a breakout and since then red pimples on cheeks and forehead, blackheads and whiteheads. Knowing that for years i tried almost all the creams and the only thing that worked for me was accutane, should I ask my doctor to give me accutane again for a 2nd round? Thanks. (Sorry for my english, I'm french)

Payman Kosari, MD, FAAD · Answer

Occasionally, patients need to get back on isotretinoin (Accutane) to treat their acne.  Talk with your dermatologist about this.  It is definitely possible to get back on the medicine if you need to.  There is some data to suggest that higher doses of isotretinoin may decrease relapse and recurrence of acne.  I have been using such a protocol and have had great results.  Good luck.Best, Payman Kosari, MD, FAAD

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question.I agree with the other answer, you should ask your dermatologist if you can repeat the Accutane course.  In my experience, a second course is usually very well tolerated and very helpful.  It is probably the only thing that will make a big difference for you.Good luck!

Acne coming back one year after taking accutane. Should my doctor consider prescribing it to me again?

Answers (2)