Is 80mg of Accutane a day too much for me to be taking?

Question

I started accutane 25 days ago at 40mg twice a day. I’m a 25 year old girl, weigh about 145lbs, and live in Phoenix Arizona. My skin in dry but mostly where my acne is, I’ve been having a terrible initial breakout for the last week and a half, my lips are so raw I can feel my pulse in them (I’ve tried every brand of lip balm/lubricant) and it hurts to do basic things like eat, talk, and smile. It seems like 80mg a day for where I live and my size is too much. Is that true?

Isobel Walker, MBBS · Answer

Respectfully you should check with your dermatologist, as the dose ranges from 0.2 to 1.0 mg per kg per day. Many, variables should be considered, including your intake with food, what type of food, the amount you eat, vitamin A supplements, and rare causes of retinoid receptor genetic anomalies that goes way beyond this forum. Your best source is your dermatologist. 
Acne can be treated with peels, vitamin A creams- retinol, as well as good skin care including correct use of cleansers, exfoliants and in females make up. The use low level laser emission devices such as blue light- omnilux as well as a variety of peels such as BHA or Lactic Acid peels can address acne. Diet plays an important role in the management of acne, as do supplements such as zinc. Finding the correct combination for your skin type is the key, as everyone has a unique pattern of acne. Some have blackead acne and clogged pores – peels and retinol help in this context. Some have papular pustular acne- phototherapy – LED, and Kleresca is indicated in this subgroup. Do not underestimate the importance of dietary control. 
  
If all else fails, a general dermatologist can prescribe medication to address hormonal issues, or tablets that decrease oil production. All the best, Dr Isobel Walker. Brisbane, Australia.

Is 80mg of Accutane a day too much for me to be taking?

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Is 80mg of Accutane a day too much for me to be taking?

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Everything you need to know about Accutane

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