In deciding to use a Accuatne, the risks of taking the Accuatnemust be weighed against the good it will do. This is a decision you and your doctor will make. For isotretinoin (the generic name for accutane), the following should be considered:
Allergies: Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to isotretinoin, acitretin, etretinate, tretinoin, or vitamin A preparations. Also tell your health care professional if you are allergic to any other substances, such as foods, preservatives (such as parabens), or dyes.
Pregnancy: Isotretinoin must not be taken during pregnancy because it causes birth defects in humans. In addition, isotretinoin must not be taken if there is a chance that you may become pregnant during treatment or within 1 month following treatment .
Breast-feeding: It is not known whether isotretinoin passes into breast milk. However, isotretinoin should not be used during breast-feeding because it may cause unwanted effects in nursing babies.
Children: Children may be especially sensitive to the effects of isotretinoin. This may increase the chance of side effects during treatment. Children may have the side effects of back, joint, or muscle pain more often than adults. This medicine should be used with caution in teenagers, especially those with bone problems or diseases.
Older adults: Many medicines have not been studied specifically in older people. Therefore, it may not be known whether they work exactly the same way they do in younger adults or if they cause different side effects or problems in older people. There is no specific information comparing use of isotretinoin in the elderly with use in other age groups. However, older people may have a greater risk of problems and adverse effects when taking isotretinoin.
I was on Accuntane and although it did wonders to my skin, it did have its side effects. I was INCREDIBLEY dried out everywhere. My face, lips, hands, arms, legs, back, and even scalp were dry and irritating. Also, I had blurred vision. It only lasted a day and I called my doctor and was taken off of it. It scared me alot because I have 20/20 but it all stopped after I was off it.
Posts: 29 | Location: Near NYC | Registered: January 24, 2007
I used Acctuane twice & I believe it was well worth it. My skin was reallyyyyy dry the first few months, but after awhile my body got used to it and I wasn't so dry anymore. I was really good with applying lotion and lip balm! I also had to take a blood test & pregnancy test every month to make sure every thing was o.k.
I've been off Accutane for about 3 years now. I still have mild acne breakouts (when I get my period) but I apply cream every night and it usually does the trick.
People who didn't know me when I had severe acne are SHOCKED when I tell them. They think my skin is flawless.
Be careful thought.. it isn't for everyone.
----------------------------- Learn to live without excuses.
Posts: 2 | Location: NYC | Registered: August 15, 2007
My brother was on it when he was 16 and got lots of stomach aches and sometimes headaches. Then he got put on some other medication but it did not work. He uses proactive now and it works so so.
Posts: 20 | Location: Williamsburg | Registered: February 15, 2008
I looked up all the side effects of Accutane and found it not worth the health risks. I use a mild soap and try to keep my skin scrupulously CLEEN, all the time. If I get a little breakout, I dab the area with a bit of plain old alcohol. Works for me
Posts: 26 | Location: Philadelphia, PA | Registered: May 19, 2008
I actually tried that "Proactive" stuff they sell on T.V. I wouldn't say it was any better or any worse than all the other products I tried at the time (around 16-17). The main ingredent in it has a long scientific name that is the exact same thing that every other pimple cream & medication has in it, just much, much more expensive. BTW- does anybody know of a good CHEMICAL PEEL place or doctor in NY? I still have a little acne scarring right under my cheek bones (the worst possible place, of course) but i have a question: How expensive is it? Does it really work, and is it very painful? I'm a coward Thanx.
Posts: 26 | Location: Philadelphia, PA | Registered: May 19, 2008
Please check your personal messages. I'd like to reply to your original post.
Chemical face peels are always done by a qualified dermatologist or plastic surgeon. There are many processes and techniques available, depending on your needs and the severity of your skin condition. There is some irritation and skin peeling involved, but the pain level is minimal. Chemical peels aren't cheap, but many of my clients have reported excellent results with them.
Thank you so-o-o-o much for getting back, Robert. Based upon your recommendations I've decided to go forward with the face peel. The only thing is the money, and right when I need to start saving for my trip out! See you on the 23rd. Nicole
Posts: 26 | Location: Philadelphia, PA | Registered: May 19, 2008
Keep in mind that any skin problems or disruptions can be easily removed in Photoshop. If money's tight, save your bucks for the trip to NYC. You can always have the face treatment done later.
The words, “CHEAP” and “NEW YORK” do not go together.
I’ll see what I can come up with. I noticed a youth hostel in the Chesea area where my studio is located, but this time of year they’re usually booked months in advance. In the meantime, try Googling “Travelocity” or something like that. Weekdays will also be a lot cheaper.
Check your PM from time to time. I’ll post anything promising there.