How to take Accutane

Accutane is a very potent drug with certain side effects known to occur if taken wrong, that is why you should be very careful while using it. Do not exceed the prescribed dosage or take the drug longer than indicated by your doctor. You will be most likely required to visit your doctor on a regular basis while on a course of Accutane and some additional tests may be required.

The usual course duration is about 16 to 20 weeks. It’s quite likely that you will experience active acne breakouts at the initial stage (about 4 weeks) because the body needs to adjust itself to the medication. The first results should be observed after the first 4-6 weeks of Accutane use. After you finish the first course of Accutane there will be a rest period of about two months. In case you will require additional Accutane treatment for achieving the desired results, a second course may be prescribed only after this rest period.

Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid taking Accutane for it may harm the unborn baby. Nursing mothers should also avoid using the drug because it is known to pass through milk and cause development problems in small children. It is highly recommended for women to use two forms of birth control at the same time during the course of Accutane if sexually active.

Accutane is a form of Vitamin A, and taking different forms of this substance at the same time may lead to overdose. In case you are taking any vitamin supplements, foods, or other substances containing Vitamin A make sure to inform your doctor about that before you start taking Accutane. Your dosage should be adjusted respectively. Taking too much Vitamin A will lead to aggravation of skin problems and other negative health conditions.

Avoid taking alcohol while on Accutane. Alcohol may interact with the medication and cause negative side effects.

Try to avoid direct contact with harsh sunlight during the course of Accutane. The drug will make the skin more sensitive and you risk having skin damage and sunburns in a much shorter period of time than it may require usually. Do not tan or spend too much time on the sun.

Do not use any other anti-acne treatments while using Accutane, unless your doctor prescribes you to.

Do not chew or crush the tablet. Take it as a whole with a full glass of water. Try taking it around the same time each day in order to achieve better effects and avoid missing doses.