If I’m on 40 mg of accutane a day, weighing 160 lbs, how long should I stay on treatment to prevent relapse?

Question

This is my 3rd time taking accutane... I worry about hair loss so my doctor said low dosing will prevent that so I would like to stay on 40 mg for the entire course if possible. To prevent relapse do I need to reach a total dosage (I’ve heard 8,000-12,000mg total treatment) for high success. If I weigh 160 lbs, on 40 mg a day, will I need to stay on accutane for 8/10 months low dose to reach that total dosage to avoid relapse? Thanks so much!

Reuel Aspacio, MD, FAAD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. You are correct in that the target cumulative dose depends on your weight. And your daily dosage would depend on the severity of the side effects you are experiencing and blood test results, among others. Depending on your daily dosage, your length of time would be determined. I would recommend a consultation with your board certified dermatologist for evaluation of your progress and discussion of appropriate treatment. Best of luck.

If I’m on 40 mg of accutane a day, weighing 160 lbs, how long should I stay on treatment to prevent relapse?

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