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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Accutane A Safe Medicine For The Treatment Of Acne On The Face?

I am 18 years old with moderate acne that began in July. The issue is mostly hyper pigmentation from old acne on my forehead, temples, and chin. I do have a few active pimples on my forehead and one on my chin. I have been on Doxycycline for 2 months and Retin-A for years, but since there hasn t been much improvement, my derm recommended Accutane. I have been researching it, and I am afraid to take it due to the permanent loss of libido side effect. As it is, my libido is not super high. Should I take Accutane??
Mon, 24 Oct 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hi,
Thanks for posting in HCM.
I have read your description and understand your concern.
Accutane is a form of vitamin A (isotretinoin). It reduces the amount of oil released by oil glands in your skin. It also helps your skin to renew itself more quickly.
It is used to treat severe nodular acne. It is usually given following use of other acne medicines or antibiotics or along with it.
More common side effects encountered with its use include: Bone or joint pain, inflammatory skin reactions and nose bleeds.
It is not known to cause loss of libido permanently.
Kindly take the medication as prescribed and do the necessary follow-up.
Hope the information provided would be helpful.
All the best.
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Is Accutane A Safe Medicine For The Treatment Of Acne On The Face?

Hi, Thanks for posting in HCM. I have read your description and understand your concern. Accutane is a form of vitamin A (isotretinoin). It reduces the amount of oil released by oil glands in your skin. It also helps your skin to renew itself more quickly. It is used to treat severe nodular acne. It is usually given following use of other acne medicines or antibiotics or along with it. More common side effects encountered with its use include: Bone or joint pain, inflammatory skin reactions and nose bleeds. It is not known to cause loss of libido permanently. Kindly take the medication as prescribed and do the necessary follow-up. Hope the information provided would be helpful. All the best.