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acutane
im going to get acutane for my acne but my dermatologist said that there may be serious side effects.
has anyone had any experience with acutane or know anything about it?
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Accutane is basically a huuuuge dose of vitamin E. The high levels can (very rarely) have serious side effects like liver damage. More likely are the mental effects it can have, such as depression, moodiness, and suicidal thoughts and/or actions. Monthly blood tests are required by the FDA (to make sure you're not building up toxic levels of vitamin E or anything) and your behavior will likely be monitored closely.
Also, if you're a female, you are required to have two pregnancy tests and go on birth control before the doctor even writes a prescription. Plus you have to use two other forms of contraception. This stuff is VERY damaging to a developing baby, and if you do get pregnant while on it, you're strongly advised to have an abortion because the risk of birth defects is so high. That last part is extreme, but it's something to keep in mind (I don't know your age, or gender, for that matter)
If you're considering Accutane, also keep in mind that acne is often caused by out-of-control hormone fluctuations. And guess what birth control alone does? It regulates your hormones! So before you take Accutane, I suggest asking your dermatologist (I'm assuming you have one if youre asking about Accutane) or your doctor about birth control, to see if that'll be enought to solve your problem. (It usually is for most people)
The side effects I've mentioned above are VERY rare. You're only on the medication for twenty weeks, and it cures your acne permanently. If you have severe acne and absolutely NOTHING else works (Proactiv, doxycycline, cephalexen, clindamycin, Retn-A, Differin, Benza-Clin.. there's a lot of options out there) it's probably worth trying. Just make sure that your close friends and family know that you're taking it (they'll be the first to notice significant changes in your mood/personality)
Sorry I went kind of overboard here.. I just wanted to tell you every thing I knew about this subject. I've been through it, and it stinks :)
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heres a link that should help...
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