Should I be worried to use Accutane but not as a last resort for acne?

Question

Been struggling with quite severe acne for about 8 years, now I'm 18. For the past 2 years, my derma gave me clindamycin, AHA 10, Differin gel for the 1st then switched to retinoic acid 0.025% for the 2nd but with no significant changes. Just recently over a online consult, I was prescribed Accutane to also help with my oiliness but I have yet to start taking it since my research says that it should be a last resort but I have yet to try other antibiotics, hormones etc. Should I be worried?

Amy Y. Paul, DO, FAAD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Accutane can be used for any type of acne, and is especially good at reducing oil in the skin and clearing up deeper cystic lesions.  There are other options including spironolactone, birth control pills, and antibiotics that probably should be explored before jumping straight to Accutane, but sometimes you would just be wasting time and what you really need is Accutane. I would probably trust your dermatologist if they think that is the next best step for you.

Should I be worried to use Accutane but not as a last resort for acne?

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