The Isotretinoin or Accutane Acne Treatment is a derivate of Vitamin A. This treatment is used to treat extreme cases of acne that do not respond to any other kinds of methods of treatment. In Singapore, this treatment is a prescription-only drug that is to be consumed orally. Isotretinoin pills can only be prescribed by doctors. It has been used by dermatologists and skin specialists since it got its US FDA approval in the year 1982.

What we can tell you is that it ranges from 0.5mg to 2mg daily with low-dose recommendations becoming a new standard of care. Also, even though the Accutane treatment has high success rates in removing acne, an entire course of Accutane can last between 3 to 10 months.

Below, Beauty Insider explains everything about Accutane Treatment.

How does Accutane Acne Treatment work?

The way Isotretinoin works is that it limits the amount of oil your body produces, up to 80% reduction of sebum production. This is because the main reason why acne happens is that there is an overgrowth of bacteria your clogged pores. Hence, lesser oil means a lesser room for bacteria to live.

Not only that the Isotretinoin also reduces the size of the oil glands, regulates the cell-turnover rate and also has anti-inflammatory properties. This is vital for those living in Singapore due to the humid and hot weather that promotes oil production and clogged pores, that would result in acne.

Does Accutane Acne Treatment affect your hormones?

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Isotretinoin has an influence on your pituitary hormone level. Studies have proven that Isotretinoin tends to cause mild suppression of pituitary hormone levels that are beneficial for tackling pathogenesis, which is the cause of acne.

Who is not suitable for the Accutane Acne Treatment?

More often than not, individuals who are not allowed to orally consume Isotretinoin are those with:

  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Excessive high blood cholesterol levels
  • Hypervitaminosis A
  • Pregnancy/Breastfeeding

Not only that, but Isotretinoin can also cause night vision disruption. If your job requires you to drive or operate a vehicle at night like pilots and drivers, you will not be suitable for this treatment. This is to ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Are there side effects to the Accutane Acne Treatment

Long term side effects

As Isotretinoin is a “category X’ drug, it can lead to birth defects if one consumes it during her period of pregnancy. Hence, this safety concern has made it mandatory for females to take birth control while on the Accutane acne treatment to reduce the chances of unwanted pregnancy.

Not only that, but long term side effects also occur in 7.2% of patients and can include Crohn’s disease, dry eye syndrome, arthralgia, xeroderma and exacerbation of eczema. This is the reason why Isotretinoin acne therapy is to be taken under the supervision and consultation of an expert skin doctor.

Short term side effects

Some common side effects include dry lips, dry skin, nosebleed, eczema, cheilitis, increased photosensitivity and also dry mouth. Most importantly, Isotretinoin helps in reducing soil and sebum production everywhere.

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What is the recommended dosage of the Accutane Acne Treatment?

The recommended dosage of the Isotretinoin is tailored according to your skin condition as well as the severity of your acne. The Accutane dosage can range from ultra-low doses of 10 mg every 2 weeks to 30-40 mg a day. It all comes down to the severity of your acne and whether or not you have any side-effects.

What to expect when you are on the Accutane Acne Treatment?

  • The flare-up of acne. During this period of the treatment, your acne gets worse initially and it would last around 3 to 4 weeks. When this happens, do not be discourages as it means that the medication is working. It will soon subside and your acne and pimples will improve over time.
  • Moodiness. Usually, you would tend to get moody and slightly depressed during this treatment, but always remind yourself that it’s just the treatment. Studies have shown that someone who takes Accutane is 2.68 times more likely to develop depression than someone who does not.
  • Dramatic results. Almost all Accutane users manage to get rid of their acne. A reduction in anxiety and depression are also seen when Accutane has successfully treated the acne.

Can I take other medicines while I’m on the Accutane Acne Treatment?

It is vital to inform your doctor that you are on an oral Isotretinoin in case there is a drug to drug interactions.

Generally, these are some of the medications to avoid:

  • Oral Tetracycline Anbitiotics (e.g. Doxycycline is commonly prescribed for acne)
  • Methotrexate
  • Vitamin A containing supplements
  • Alcohol (may cause liver inflammation)

When I am on the Accutane Acne Treatment, can I have lasers of chemical peels?

Yes, you can! This is because it is safe and studies have shown that there are no increased risks or complications that can arise when you have ablative or non-ablative laser treatment when you are on the Accutane acne treatment.

To your surprise, extreme cases of severe acne more often required more than just Isotretinoin oral acne therapy. Dermatologists use chemical peels, lasers as well as anti-acne steroid injection in addition to the Isotretinoin to help you get rid of your acne faster.

How long do I have to take this Accutane Acne Treatment for?

Normally, a course of treatment would last about 4 to 5 months. It could run shorter or longer depending on the severity of your acne. Also, as some patients do not clear after one course of treatment, the second course of treatment may be suggested as well.

When can I stop the Accutane Acne Treatment?

Because of the increasing recognition of the severe nature of acne, an ideal treatment should compromise of an induction phase which is then followed by a maintenance therapy when you are acne-free.

However, an expert doctor will be guiding you throughout this journey safely to ensure minimal side effects and complications.

What is the cost of Accutane Acne Treatment in Singapore?

Isotretinoin or Accutane can cost from $150 to $240 for a box of tablets compromising of 30 tablets. Also, the total cost of treatment is also dependant on your daily dosage of Isotretinoin and the duration of your acne treatment.

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