Your acne has become a stubborn problem and your only solace is a poorly lit room.
But what actually is Accutane?
And what about all those rumors that it causes dry skin or depression?
I want to try Accutane, but what is it exactly?
Its just the name most of us are familiar with now.
Both dosage and treatment depend on the person.
Why does it work so well?
Its effective because it attacks acne on all fronts, according to dermatologistJoshua Zeichner, M.D.
What kind of side effects are we talking about?
Preventing pregnancy is crucial.
Youll also have to fill out a monthly questionnaire, which well get to in a bit.
Wait, so this could cause depression?
The results, for the most part, are mixed.
If anything I have seen their mood change for the better once they see their acne clearing up.
Patients who are depressed and are undergoing psychiatric treatment often get approval to begin Accutane and are closely monitored.
I dont think the risks should scare them off.
Still, if you do have concerns, double-check you inform your dermatologist before starting any treatment.
What should I do first if Im interested?
Youll have to factor in a number of lifestyle changes before beginning any treatment, too.
Theres also the investment of time youll need to make, too.
What is the time investment like?
As mentioned, if youre a woman, youll also need to take a pregnancy test in-office every month.
Can I expect immediate results?
It dependsit took me two months before I saw any results.
Some also get worse before getting better, she added.
Some users experience an initial breakout or purge while beginning treatment.
Its temporary, however, and only lasts a few weeks.
What can I do to save my skin while Im undergoing treatment?
Will this save my skin forever?
In a 5-year follow up, however, 7.9 percent had experienced some form of relapse.
According toInsider, some doctors claim the relapse rate for their patients is somewhere between 20 and 33 percent.
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