Accumulative Dose Query

Question

So, I have 5 days of 40mg accutane tablets left till im done with 6 months of treatment. I am 29 years old and way 10 st 4 lbs. After the 3rd month i missed 10 days of tablets because of a delay between getting my perscription and tablets. My Dermotologist and I had my final appointment the other day. I told him about the missing doses and he said i don't need to take them. I'm confused, because doesn't that mean i wont have taken enough to reach my accumulative dosage?

Anna Chacon, MD, FAAD · Answer

Hello,

It's understandable to be concerned about reaching the cumulative dose of Accutane (isotretinoin), as this can impact the long-term effectiveness of the treatment. Here's some information that might help clarify your situation:

Cumulative Dose: The effectiveness of isotretinoin is often related to the total cumulative dose taken over the course of treatment. The typical target cumulative dose ranges from 120 to 150 mg/kg, but this can vary based on individual factors and your dermatologist's judgment.

Missed Doses: Missing doses for a short period, like 10 days, might not significantly impact your overall cumulative dose, especially if your dermatologist evaluated your progress and determined that additional doses are unnecessary.

Dermatologist's Guidance: Your dermatologist's advice to not make up the missed doses suggests that they believe your current cumulative dose is sufficient for effective treatment. Dermatologists consider various factors, including your response to the medication, side effects, and overall acne improvement, when deciding on the need for additional doses.

Follow-Up: It's important to follow up with your dermatologist if you have concerns about the effectiveness of your treatment or if you experience any recurrence of acne. They can reassess your situation and determine if further treatment is needed.

Communication: If you’re still unsure or worried, it might be beneficial to reach out to your dermatologist for further clarification on why they concluded that the additional doses are not necessary.

I hope this helps alleviate some of your concerns. Always feel free to discuss any lingering questions with your healthcare provider to ensure you feel comfortable and informed about your treatment plan.

Best regards,

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