Isotretinoin (Accutane) - How Long Does It Take to Work? Weight Loss?

Question

I was wondering if anyone knows how long this stuff generally takes to work and why some reports say it can cause unwanted weight loss? What would make it do that?

To be fair, I should mention that I ordered it from out of the US so that I would not have to go through the trouble and expense of getting a prescription. I am a female but I have no chance of getting pregnant and I understand it can have serious side effects.

I'm taking 20mg pills - I cut them in half and take a half, twice a day. I'm just not sure how long I should expect to take it and I don't want to take it for too long ...

If you don't know, just don't answer. There is no point in telling me to talk to a doctor. I can't afford it and I'm not going to.

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker

I took 30 mg of accutane (once a day) for about 4 months. My dermatologist switched me to 20 mg of accutane (still once a day) about a month and a half ago and while my acne hasn't gone away, it has definitely improved. The acne looked worse for the first month or so but gotten better, slowly.

As for the weight loss, I don't know where those reports came from. My dermatologist told me to eat fatty foods because the pills absorb better with it so I've gained about 5 pounds since being put on the accutane.

You don't have to cut the pill in half. Take it at night and take it for 4-6 months. I've been on accutane for almost 6 months now and I've been told I'll be on it for another month.

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Asker's Comment:

Thanks.

Answer 2

not sure about the weight loss...i didn't lose any while i was on it. it does dry you out significantly so maybe you lose some water weight...but thats easily remedied by drinking water.

after about a month i noticed my acne was getting better and after 3 months it was completely clear.

the worst side effect in my opinion was my dry lips....i used aquaphor for that...it was a freakin godsend. good luck.