More than a strictly cosmetic issue, acne can take its toll physically and emotionally, affecting self-esteem, confidence, and overall well-being. When breakouts are persistent, painful, or resistant to standard treatments, it’s easy to feel discouraged.
At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we see this frustration among acne patients every day – and we’re hereto help. For certain patients, oral isotretinoin (formerly sold under the brand name Accutane®) remains one of the most effective and transformative acne treatments available. With proper clinical care and monitoring, it can deliver clear, lasting results.
Isotretinoin is an oral retinoid, which is an umbrella term that refers to compounds made from Vitamin A. Isotretinoin treats acne at the source by reducing oil production in the skin’s pores, minimizing bacteria, and calming inflammation. For patients who have not seen lasting improvement from topical treatments, including topical retinoids, or antibiotics, isotretinoin offers a powerful next step.
Unlike other acne therapies that manage symptoms on the surface, isotretinoin works throughout the body to reduce oil production, which ultimately stops acne from forming. Its results are long-lasting and can even offer permanent improvement.
Decades ago, Accutane suffered a bad reputation because it can cause birth defects when used by pregnant women. For this reason, we never – absolutely never – prescribe isotretinoin to someone who is pregnant. Likewise, we take rigorous steps to ensure women and men taking isotretinoin use birth control if they are sexually active.
Outside of the risks specifically for pregnant women, isotretinoin is safe and highly effective for treating acne. Like any drug, isotretinoin has some common side effects, including dry lips, sun sensitivity, and joint or muscle aches. We work closely with each patient to address these issues and manage side effects. We also monitor lab work throughout treatment to watch for changes in cholesterol or liver enzymes. Additionally, we pay close attention to possible mood changes, which are sometimes reported.
Isotretinoin treatment usually lasts six months or occasionally longer, but the exact length depends on each patient’s size. Dosage is cumulative based on each patient’s weight. In other words, we spread the total required dose over several months until each patient has taken the full amount required for her or his weight.
Sometimes we spread treatment out over more months to minimize side effects, and with other patients, we can condense the treatment duration if they tolerate the drug without any issues. The goal is to reach a cumulative dose with the fewest side effects and minimize the chance of acne returning after treatment ends.
Many patients may notice an initial breakout during the first weeks of oral isotretinoin treatment. The good news is this is typically short-lived and often signals the medication is starting to work effectively.
During this phase of treatment, we stay in communication with each patient so we can adjust their care plan if side effects are uncomfortable or disruptive.
When the struggle with ongoing acne persists, it's important to know that there are effective options like oral isotretinoin, which can be far more effective than other acne treatments. At Florida Dermatology Specialists, we guide patients safely and confidently through treatments that work, helping them reclaim their confidence and feel their best.
To schedule an appointment to discuss safe management of your acne, book a consultation with us at the Florida Dermatology Specialists practice location nearest to you, or click here:
For details on insurance coverage, please visit our Patient Resources page.
