How do I know if I'm a good candidate for Accutane?

Author: Junior Gottlieb  |  Last update: Wednesday, October 8, 2025

Patients with severe nodulocystic acne or even mild or moderate acne that hasn't responded to conventional treatments are excellent candidates for isotretinoin. The bottom line is that any patient with acne scarring potential should at least be considered.

How do you know if Accutane is right for you?

Accutane is needed for moderate to severe acne that has failed other treatments. It should be used for a severe, scarring acne. Is also used for acne present for many years that has not respond completely to antibiotic pills and creams.

What makes you a good candidate for Accutane?

It is typically recommended for those who have acne breakouts that aren't responding to other treatments as well as for those who struggle with severe cystic and nodular acne.

How do you know if you're a candidate for Accutane?

A baseline blood check is universally required prior to starting Accutane, so that the Accutane candidate's baseline liver and cholesterol health may be assessed. Any persons who are child-bearing must have a pregnancy test done monthly.

How do you know if you qualify for Accutane?

A prescription is issued during your second office visit which occurs after a 30-day waiting period, with documentation of two pregnancy tests (no less than 30 days apart) and lab results (liver testing, baseline cholesterol, general health panel).

Accutane: What to Know Before, During, & After Treatment

What disqualifies you from taking Accutane?

have ever had problems that affect your sex life such as erectile dysfunction (impotence), low sex drive (loss of libido), vaginal dryness, loss of feeling in your genitals or difficulty reaching orgasm. are trying for a baby, pregnant, think you may be pregnant or you're breastfeeding. have liver or kidney disease.

Who is not a good candidate for Accutane?

Accutane is teratogenic. It must not be used by females who are pregnant or who may become pregnant while undergoing treatment.

Who is not eligible for Accutane?

Isotretinoin must not be taken by patients who are pregnant or who may become pregnant. There is a high risk that isotretinoin will cause loss of the pregnancy, or will cause the baby to be born too early, to die shortly after birth, or to be born with birth defects (physical problems that are present at birth).

Can I pop my pimples while on Accutane?

Rule #1: do NOT pop pimples, which simply leads to increased risks of leaving scars. Sometimes we consider an oral medication called spironolactone. We sometimes consider topical antibiotics including Cindamycin and Erythromycin.

What happens if you don't drink water while on Accutane?

It's important to stay hydrated while taking Accutane

A major side effect of Accutane is that it can dry out your skin, lips, and even your eyes. Getting enough water throughout the day can help minimize these side effects.

Am I suitable for Accutane?

The severity of acne: Accutane is typically reserved for treating severe acne that has not responded to other therapies, such as antibiotics and topical medications. Accutane may not be the best treatment option for you if you have mild to moderate acne.

How long is Accutane purge?

How Long Does Purging Last on Accutane? While the duration can vary, purging typically lasts between four to six weeks after starting Accutane. However, individual experiences may differ based on skin type, acne severity, and dosage.

How much peanut butter with Accutane?

If you fall into this group, you must take your Isotretinoin with an adequate amount of fat. I recommend that you take the Isotretinoin with the largest meal and include either 8 ounces of WHOLE milk OR a tablespoon of peanut butter PLUS other fat such as meat, eggs, ice cream, avocado, butter, bacon , etc.

Is Accutane worth the risk?

The risk of developing severe side effects is very low – with only 1 in 500 patients experiencing serious adverse events – and the potential benefits of the treatment are very high, especially for those who have found that no other treatments are effective.

How quickly do Accutane side effects appear?

Your skin will be more prone to sunburn, dryness, or irritation, especially during the first 2 or 3 weeks of treatment. However, you or your child should not stop using this medicine unless the skin irritation becomes too severe.

Does Accutane make you gain weight?

Does Accutane Cause Weight Gain? A commonly prescribed medication for treating stubborn acne, there aren't significant studies pointing to weight gain as a side effect. Sometimes, people experience a decrease in appetite.

What type of acne is Accutane best for?

Does Accutane work to treat severe acne? Yes! Accutane is extremely effective in treating all types of acne and is the most effective treatment option for severe acne, including cystic and nodular acne. It has a high success rate of nearly 95% on average for those who complete the 5-month course.

How scary is Accutane?

Accutane (isotretinoin) has a long list of possible side effects associated with it. Most of these side effects are mild and go away after you stop taking the medication. Common Accutane side effects include dry and peeling skin, nosebleeds, and dry eyes.

What can you not do while on Accutane?

What may interact with this medication?
  • Alcohol.
  • Benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, or other drying medications used for acne.
  • Medications for seizures.
  • Orlistat.
  • Other medications that make you more sensitive to the sun such as sulfa medications.
  • Progestin-only birth control hormones.
  • St. John's Wort.

Who shouldn't get Accutane?

Accutane is teratogenic. It must not be used by females who are pregnant or who may become pregnant while undergoing treatment. Women of childbearing potential should meet the following conditions before being started on Accutane. within one week prior to beginning therapy.

Who is the best candidate for Accutane?

Accutane is an effective treatment option for nearly all types of acne. It is usually prescribed for patients with severe acne which is not treatable with other options.

How expensive is Accutane?

About accutane

It is available in multiple brand and generic versions. It is covered by most Medicare and insurance plans, but pharmacy coupons or cash prices may be lower. Get Accutane for as low as $40.00, which is 85% off the average retail price of $261.76 for the most common version, by using a GoodRx coupon.

Why do dermatologists not like Accutane?

So why does isotretinoin get such a bad reputation? The majority of the controversy stems from the high likelihood to cause birth defects if a female taking the medication were to become pregnant as well as the inconsistent associations with depression, suicide, and inflammatory bowel disease.

What are the negatives of Accutane?

Serious Side Effects of Accutane

Additional serious side effects may include decreased red or white blood cells, blood sugar problems, allergic reactions such as hives or trouble breathing, skin problems such as peeling, blistering, rash with fever and conjunctivitis (pink eye).

What is a better option than Accutane?

If you're looking for Accutane alternatives to treat your acne, there are many options to try, including topical retinoids, antibacterial medications, and hormonal treatments. Check with your doctor or other healthcare professional to see which treatment option is best for you.

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