Hair loss while on 80 mg isotretinoin for cystic acne. Should I stop?

Question

I've been on isotretinoin for the last 5 mo. (I'm female, ~112 lbs). 60 mg the 1st 2 mo, 80 mg for these last 3. I've noticed within the last month my hair is thinning. A hair test w/ my doctor confirmed I have hair loss (Telogen Effluvium). Regardless of this, my doctor still wants 80 mg/day for 2 more mo. (7 total). I saw a 2nd doctor for another opinion. She said to stop now, the hair could get worse. I have mostly clear skin but scars and still some breakouts/ pimples. What to do?

Matt Tahsini, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. This is a tough one, having to pick between having acne or hair loss. I think you should be able to find the correct balance to satisfy both issues. I would speak to your doctor and see if there is a way to treat the acne but minimize the hair loss. Perhaps a lower dose of the medication. If your current doctor isn’t willing to work with you I’d find another opinion. Best wishes to you.Dr. T

William Rassman, MD (retired) · Answer

Accutane is known to cause hair loss. Clearly your doctor is treating you for acne so that there is a balancing act that you and your doctor need to work out to be able to get the benefits of the accutane and manage the hair loss that comes with it.

Hair loss while on 80 mg isotretinoin for cystic acne. Should I stop?

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Hair loss while on 80 mg isotretinoin for cystic acne. Should I stop?

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