Wishing effects of Accutane lasted longer than 6 months, should I do a second treatment?

Question

Hello,I was on accutane for 5 months-20 mg the first month, 30 mg the last four. I have been off of it for 7 months and up until the last month or two had clear skin. All of a sudden it is starting to creep back up all over my face. Not cystic as before but I break out more and more each day and I worry it will slowly become worse. I was wondering if I did not receive enough with the last treatment and need to undergo a second round of accutane or if it will just return again? I am a 27 year old woman.

Joshua L. Fox, MD · Answer

It is not unheard of to have to repeat a course of Accutane.
There are many variables in place such as skin type, severity of acne, and
dosage that determine this. If you are starting to break out more and more, a
second opinion from a different dermatologist may be helpful.

F. Victor Rueckl, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

The key to making Accutane work is the total cumulative dosage, which is usually between 8000-16000mg total. Your dose that you have listed gives you a total cumulative dosage of 4200mg. So you barely got halfway through what is considered the normal recommended dosage. I'm sure your acne cleared up while on it, but there was no way that the pores and glands changed enough for a long term cure. Bottom line, you need to do it again, and be on the meds longer, or on a higher daily dosage. "This answer has been solicited without seeing this patient and cannot be held as true medical advice, but only opinion. Seek in-person treatment with a trained medical professional for appropriate care."

Wishing effects of Accutane lasted longer than 6 months, should I do a second treatment?

Answers (2)

More Accutane Questions

Can I have electrolysis done while on Accutane?

Only took Accutane for three months. How long should I wait before beginning regular facials again?

Should I start taking accutane?

My son is 8 months post roaccutaine and has large patches of dry skin which appear stuck to his face. What are his options?

Is it dangerous to be on a lower-fat diet while taking accutane?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS