Hi everyone! I've been struggling with severe acne for years now. My dermatologist recently prescribed me Accutane (Isotretinoin) at a dosage of 40 mg per day. He suggested getting it from a Canadian pharmacy to save some money since the cost here is quite high. Has anyone had experience with this? I'm curious about side effects, effectiveness, and your thoughts on using a Canadian pharmacy for this medication.
Hi CuriousCat! It's great that you've found a dermatologist willing to prescribe Isotretinoin (Accutane) as it can be very effective for severe acne cases. When considering the use of medications from Canadian pharmacies, ensure they are licensed and reputable. Look for certifications like VIPPS (Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Sites).
Regarding side effects, there are several that you should be aware of:
Let me know if you have any specific concerns about the medication itself or about getting it from a Canadian pharmacy.
Thank you, DermDr! I appreciate your detailed response. Regarding the side effects, my dermatologist mentioned dry skin and eyes as well, but didn't mention joint pain. That's good to know.
I'm also concerned about mood changes since I've heard a lot of people talk about this issue. How common is it really? And do you have any tips for managing these potential side effects?
You're welcome, CuriousCat! Mood changes are less common but can still occur, particularly in individuals who may already be prone to depression or anxiety. It's always a good idea to discuss your mental health history with your dermatologist before starting Isotretinoin.
To manage potential side effects:
For the Canadian pharmacy aspect, ensure they have proper certification and that they can provide the same quality of Isotretinoin as local pharmacies do. Always verify their reputation and read reviews from other patients who have used them before making a purchase.
Thanks for all this information, DermDr! I feel more confident about managing the side effects now. Just one last thing – my dermatologist mentioned taking vitamin A supplements while on Accutane to avoid deficiency. Is that necessary? And are there any other vitamins or supplements I should be considering?
Glad to hear you're feeling more prepared, CuriousCat! Vitamin A supplementation is generally not recommended when using Isotretinoin because the medication itself provides a high dose of vitamin A. Excessive intake can lead to toxicity.
However, it's important to maintain good overall nutrition while on this medication:
Always consult your dermatologist or primary care physician before starting any new supplements to ensure they won't interfere with your medication and overall treatment plan.
Thank you so much, DermDr! This has been incredibly helpful. I'll make sure to keep a close eye on my skin condition and any side effects while staying in touch with my dermatologist. And I’ll definitely check the credentials of the Canadian pharmacy before making a purchase.
Thanks again for all your help!
You're welcome, CuriousCat! Don't hesitate to reach out if you have more questions or need further support during your treatment journey. Wishing you all the best with your skin health and overall well-being!
Feel free to share any additional experiences or advice here as well. Good luck on your path to clearer skin!