Forum Post: Accutane 40mg - Questions and Experiences

User: CuriousCat

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.


User: DermDr

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:

  1. Dry Skin: This is a common side effect, so moisturizing regularly will help.
  2. Lip Dryness: Use lip balm often.
  3. Joint Pain and Muscle Aches: These can occur but usually aren't severe.
  4. Mood Changes: Some people experience depression or mood swings, so it's important to keep an eye on this.

Let me know if you have any specific concerns about the medication itself or about getting it from a Canadian pharmacy.


User: CuriousCat

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?


User: DermDr

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:

  1. Dry Skin: Use a gentle cleanser and moisturizer twice daily. Your doctor might recommend applying petroleum jelly around the nose, lips, and other areas prone to dryness.
  2. Eye Dryness: Artificial tears can help with this issue.
  3. Joint Pain/Muscle Aches: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be helpful.
  4. Mood Changes: Regular exercise and a balanced diet might help manage mood changes, but always consult your doctor if you notice any significant alterations in mood.

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.


User: CuriousCat

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?


User: DermDr

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:

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These can help with skin health and may reduce joint pain.
  2. Probiotics: Some people find that probiotics support gut health during treatment.
  3. Folic Acid: This might be recommended if you're a woman of childbearing age, as folic acid is important for fetal development.

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.


User: CuriousCat

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!


User: DermDr

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!

© L'Institut du Drone. Tous droits réservés.