Care to share your experience with Accutane?

I've known two people who have taken Accutane successfully, with little to no side effects (other than the drying out). I've read the insert for the medication extensively, so I know what all the possible side effects and risks are, and I will discuss my concerns with my doctor (should he even entertain the idea of prescribing it). I'm just looking to get other peoples' experiences. How did it go for you? What was the worst side effect? How long did you end up taking it? Would you recommend it to someone else? Thanks much!

i never needed it, thank God, but my brother took it, and he was a MESS, emotionally. he was so "bi-polar", but it worked.

I took Accutane almost 20 years go and it changed my life! I had very bad cystic acne on my back, chest and face. I don't recall how long the treatment was, but I think that determined on a case by case basis. In addition to the drying out of my lips, I also had extreme sensitivity to sun light (bad burns). My daughter is 16 and had started to develop cystic acne like I had and we are heading to the dermatologist in two week to discuss Accutane and other treatments. Hope this helps!

One of the most common ways of treating acne is the use of retinoids. Retinoids are substances derived from Vitamin A, which attempt to cure acne by normalizing the lifecycle of follicle cells. There are two types of such substances, based on application: external (topical) and oral. The best known external retinoids are Retin-A, Differin and Tazorac, while the oral retinoids list is headed by the popular Accutane. However, about one quarter of the patients who used Accutane or other drugs based on isotretinoin may relapse and require additional treatment. But the biggest drawback of retinoids is the long list of side effects, which sometimes makes retinoids look like a disease rather than a cure. The most common side effects are dry skin and nosebleeds. Many patients have also reported liver problems, while a few complained of depression. However, the scientific community is still split on the issue of depression. More seriously, isotretinoin is known to cause birth defects, which is why female patients have to use two separate forms of birth control or vow abstinence during the treatment. Pregnant women are not allowed to use anything but the mildest treatments. The bottom line is that retinoids are a good idea if one can cope with the side effects. This begs the question: why not use something just as effective, but without the side effects. Acne treatment systems, such as ClearPores: are also popular because of their success in dealing with the condition, but lack the extreme side that makes retinoids a pain to use. The choice between these treatments is yours.

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