Stopping Accutane 13 days early

Question

I have been on 80mg Accutane since October 2023. The last months has been a drag. I am having issues sleeping, extra dry skin, moody and getting headaches. my skin has been clear since the end of October and i would love to stop it sooner. Is this a bad idea? I fear that even though my skin has been clear for 5 months, my acne might come back from stopping early.

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,
Stopping Accutane (isotretinoin) 13 days early is a decision that should ideally be made in consultation with your prescribing dermatologist. While it is understandable that you are experiencing significant side effects such as difficulty sleeping, dry skin, mood changes, and headaches, it's important to weigh these against the potential benefits of completing the full course of treatment.

Accutane is a powerful medication that is known to provide long-term remission of acne, but its effectiveness can be maximized by completing the prescribed course. Stopping early might slightly reduce the long-term benefits and increase the risk of acne recurrence. However, your skin has been clear for several months, which is a positive sign.

Given your symptoms and concerns, I would recommend discussing your situation with your dermatologist. They can provide personalized advice and may consider adjusting your dosage or providing supportive treatments to manage the side effects. Your health and well-being are paramount, so please ensure you have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Stopping Accutane 13 days early

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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Stopping Accutane 13 days early

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Accutane

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