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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Prescribed With Acutane For Acne. Concerned About The Side Effects

I am a 59 yr old woman who has had modest success with AZELEX for acne. My break outs occur around chin and nose,also occasionally on my cheeks. My dermatologist has precribed ACCUTANE or the generic there of. I am anxious to try it as nothing else has helped much, however I am concerned about the serious side effects that are listed. Can you help put them in perspective for me?
Thank you,
Kathleen
Mon, 20 May 2013
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Internal Medicine Specialist 's  Response
Hi Kathleen,
Welcome to Healthcare Magic.
This medicine "Accutane " basically contains "Isotretinoin" and is very effective medication for Acne. Its usual side effects includes dryness of skin and mucus membranes ( lips, eyes, dry mouth etc) and some other minor side effects which are rarely worrisome unless you have any other chronic/serious ailment of any other system/organ of your body. Usually the duration of total treatment is 5 months and at the time of starting person should neither be pregnant nor she should have any near plans for that (It is advised not to conceive till 3 months of the last pill.)
But as any medication can have any unforeseen effects so if after starting the medication, if you feel any unusual sign/symptom, please refer to your doctor.

Take Care !!
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Prescribed With Acutane For Acne. Concerned About The Side Effects

Hi Kathleen, Welcome to Healthcare Magic. This medicine Accutane basically contains Isotretinoin and is very effective medication for Acne. Its usual side effects includes dryness of skin and mucus membranes ( lips, eyes, dry mouth etc) and some other minor side effects which are rarely worrisome unless you have any other chronic/serious ailment of any other system/organ of your body. Usually the duration of total treatment is 5 months and at the time of starting person should neither be pregnant nor she should have any near plans for that (It is advised not to conceive till 3 months of the last pill.) But as any medication can have any unforeseen effects so if after starting the medication, if you feel any unusual sign/symptom, please refer to your doctor. Take Care !!