What precautions should you take?

Because of the risks associated with the use of this medication, you should check in regularly with your dermatologist or physician to make sure that Accutane is working as expected and not causing unwanted side effects. As previously indicated, this is essential if you are a woman and able to bear children. If you have acquired this drug through the internet without first consulting a dermatologist and then find yourself pregnant, it is urgent that you see a physician to see how best to deal with the risks. More generally, if you are taking Accutane, do not give blood. If a pregnant patient received your blood, this could cause birth defects.

A significant number of people find that the acne becomes worse immediately following the start of the course of treatment. You are quite likely to find that the level of irritation rises and this may last for about three weeks. Your dermatologist or pharmacist can advise on what cosmetics or other skin products to use if the irritation becomes a problem, or your skin begins to dry. If the discomfort lasts for more than one month or grows severe, seek medical advice. If there is no overall improvement after two months, you should also go for an appointment with your dermatologist. Do not forget that most courses of treatment last for up to six months. The treatment is designed to work slowly. There is no instant cure for acne.

This medication can cause a reduction in or loss of night vision. If this happens, do not drive or operate any type of dangerous machine in poor lighting conditions. Consult your physician immediately. It can also cause a reduction in the level of moisture in the eyes so, if you wear contact lenses, you may need to take greater care to ensure they remain properly lubricated while in your eyes. There are products that act as artificial tears. This problem will last during the entire course of treatment and for two or three weeks after you stop taking the tablets. If there is any sign of an inflammation of the eye, revert to wearing spectacles and consult your dermatologist immediately.

As with the eyes, some find that they get a dry mouth. You will get some relief if you chew a sugarless gum or use any of the recommended saliva substitutes. If the problem persists for more than two weeks, ask your dermatologist for guidance. Do not ignore the problem. The longer your mouth is dry, the greater the risk of gum disease and tooth decay.

Particularly during the first two or three weeks of starting the treatment, avoid excessive exposure to the sun or to cold weather. You will be more prone to sunburn or to dryness of the skin which, in turn, will increase the irritation from your acne. That means using a sunblocking cream or lotion to reduce damage caused by ultraviolet. Similarly, protect your face with a scarf and wear a hat if the weather is cold and there is a wind.

Because there is some evidence that this drug may cause changes in your mood, you should monitor your own feelings, and ask your family and friends to check on you from time to time. If you find yourself getting sad or you begin to think about death, make an urgent appointment with your physician or dermatologist.

This drug may also cause problems to your bone structure, joints and muscles. If you find your mobility is affected, perhaps you are unusually stiff in the mornings when getting out of bed, check with your physician if the problems persist and start to get worse.

Finally, do not jump the gun and have any type of cosmetic operation performed before the course of treatment has ended. This means you should not have your face waxed or go for dermabrasion for at least six months after ending treatment. It takes time for your skin to stabilize. If you go for premature cosmetic treatments, there is a significant risk of scarring.