Table of Contents
- 1 What dermatologists do before Accutane?
- 2 Is spironolactone the same as Accutane?
- 3 Do you have to go to a dermatologist to get Accutane?
- 4 Can I take spironolactone with Accutane?
- 5 What should I monitor with Accutane?
- 6 Can I go on another course of Accutane?
- 7 Is Accutane a game changer for acne treatment?
What dermatologists do before Accutane?
Looking for Alternatives to Accutane? Here Are 5 Options
- Accutane works well for acne, but some people may want to avoid it due to side effects or other reasons.
- Alternatives include topical retinoids, benzoyl peroxide, antibiotics, hormonal medications, and steroid injections.
Is spironolactone the same as Accutane?
Unlike Accutane, Spironolactone will only provide benefits while the patient is actively using it. Long-term use isn’t dangerous; however, it is designed to only treat acne while active. Weaning off of Spironolactone does not mean all of your acne will come back, either.
What can I use instead of Accutane?
One of the most promising alternatives to Accutane is Tazorac, which the FDA approved last fall and doctors say has shown dramatic results in some patients. Similar drugs, called topical retinoids, including the brands Differin and Retin-A Micro, also can help.
What blood tests are done before Accutane?
Before starting Accutane you will need two negative pregnancy tests one month apart. Your doctor will provide two blood work forms for you, one to be done now, and one to be done 2-3 days before your next appointment. Make sure you review the I-pledge booklet and you know where to locate your I-pledge number.
Do you have to go to a dermatologist to get Accutane?
Only you and your dermatologist can determine whether isotretinoin is the right acne treatment for you. Isotretinoin is highly regulated, and filling your prescription is more complicated than other drugs. However, clear skin can be truly life-changing for people who have struggled with severe acne.
Can I take spironolactone with Accutane?
No interactions were found between Accutane and spironolactone.
Does spironolactone help acne?
Studies have also shown spironolactone to be effective. Improvement ranges from a 50\% to 100\% reduction in acne. Before taking spironolactone, it’s important to know that this medication is a diuretic, so you’ll find yourself urinating more often.
Can I take vitamin A instead of Accutane?
Accutane is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A and is detectable in the bloodstream of all people. Vitamin A in large doses has the same effects as Accutane, both good and bad, but quickly becomes harmful since it builds up in the tissue. (Important: Don’t take any vitamin A while on Accutane).
What should I monitor with Accutane?
Are patients taking isotretinoin being monitored as recommended? The current recommendations state that patients prescribed isotretinoin should have a full blood count, fasting lipids and liver function tests performed at baseline (see Note) and at least once during a 16 to 30 week course of isotretinoin.
Can I go on another course of Accutane?
Yes, you can go on another course of Accutane after the first course is completed if more treatment is required. For some people who have had their acne return after Accutane, a second course knowing the history and total dosage and length of the initial treatment is needed so create an adjusted dosage.
How long does it take for Accutane to work for acne?
Most patients are free of acne after 4 to 6 months of treatment. The unfortunate downside is that some people will have a relapse after taking Accutane and the long term cure rate is actually a lot lower than what people expect.
Can I take Accutane If I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you cannot take Accutane:it has a very high risk of causing severe birth defects. What should you avoid while taking Accutane? As mentioned above, because of its numerous side effects, taking isotretinoin means you are going to have to make some major changes, in both your skin-care routine and your lifestyle.
Is Accutane a game changer for acne treatment?
“Accutane is a game changer for our patients with severe acne who also have a potential of a lifetime of acne scars,” notes Dr. Janet Allenby, a board-certified dermatologist based in Delray Beach, Florida. We asked both doctors for a quick primer on all things Accutane and the top seven things you should never do while taking the drug.