Well, I had my final consultation with my dermatologist last week. I’ve just been finishing off the course of Roaccutane over the past while and the difference that it’s made has been noticeable. I get quite a few comments about it from friends/relatives and although it’ll never be perfect, I’m more than happy with the results. Going on Roaccutane was about sorting a problem I had been living with for 10 years. I only saw it as a problem in certain situations but I never need to do that again. Some people talk about the side affects of Roaccutane but I can honestly say that I didn’t experience any serious side affects. Yes, there were days when my mood was all over the place. I will never forget one particularly horrific incident when my skin was peeling badly and I only noticied it when I went to the toilet. 
However, it did the job for me. I believe strong drugs like Roaccutane should be monitored and researched constantly to make sure that their positive effects don’t outweigh their negative ones. I’m now more outgoing than I previously was and, although it sounds stupid, I’ve noticied more women looking at me in bars. 
August 7th, 2005 at 13:31:57
i’m delighted roaccutane worked out for you. i was too scared to go on it myself for my level of acne after all the stories i had heard so it’s good to hear the positive side too
August 7th, 2005 at 17:53:01
I was worried about the side effects before I started it but with my level of acne, it was one of the only avenues I had left open to me.
August 13th, 2005 at 19:25:20
the MOOD SWINGS weren’t that BAD!!!!, you were OK SOME OF THE TIME, it was only the ,every 5 minute, fits of SHOUTING ABUSE AT STRANGERS, that frightened me.
August 14th, 2005 at 21:52:51
I’ve just started a course of Roaccutane and I feel terrible! I want to persevere, but I hope the side effects wear off slightly. But hearing you say it made a difference has made me feel a lot better, a lot of stuff on the web is all about how awful it is and how it doesn’t work – so I’m glad it worked out for you.
Good luck in bars
September 20th, 2005 at 16:19:48
on the 4th of february this yr, a friend, who was on roaccutane hung himself. He was taking the drug to help control his acne, during the time he was taking it, he was like a different person, very moody and often acting very strange – totally out of character. I am happy that it seems to work for you, but i think it is fair to say that it affects different people in different ways, as do a lot of drugs. People should be aware of the dangers of taking such a strong drug.
June 24th, 2006 at 09:16:23
I am 56 and have had acne all my life. After having tried all the available treatments, I decided enough was enough and asked for roaccutane as a last resort. The side effects for me were miminal, dry lips and eyes. Afer the treatment the acne had gone. However, two years on I have noticed that I have the odd spot again on my face and back. I would recommend this treatment, the results are worth it.
March 31st, 2007 at 21:34:27
I have had very bad skin for ten years now and taking roaccutane for 8 months made no difference to me at all.
this is an evil drug and i certainly dont recommend it to anyone. 
April 24th, 2007 at 08:25:48
ive now started my second coarse of roaccutane after the first being deemed to strong 80mg per day. ive suffered severe mood swings and on occasion felt really down , ive decided to stop today and check with my pharmatist what next ? im really taken aback that ive never had any checks as to my wellbeing for over 2 months no blood tests, to test my sugar count nothing , my advice is anyone who has been given this particular drug is to ask to be monitered as much as possible. and if in doubt contact your pharmacy asap.
May 1st, 2007 at 13:41:32
Well i am two weeks in now, ive had many a nosebleed, lots of dry skin with the occasional red peeling.
im waiting for positive results (fingers crossed)
May 2nd, 2007 at 13:16:20
Phil: Yes, people on Roaccutane really need to be monitored alright. My dermatologist was quite clear that if I felt any depression that I should come off it immediately.
Alex: Best of luck with your course. Those side affects are normal so hopefully it works out.
May 2nd, 2007 at 21:10:24
hi!I started with the treatment this week, and no side effects have shown up so far.. my acne’s not bad, just a slight redness on the cheeks.. does everyone who uses it normally have a really bad attack? not sure whether it’s worth it for me to continue or not..
May 9th, 2007 at 08:10:38
hi to you all ? ive now had to come of roaccutane once again as the way it has affected me is pretty disasterous, i used to be a very outgoing person before my treatment but now im suffering mood swings that you would never beleive. i was started on the full dose of 80mg and the thing is i havnt got that bad skin. ive asked my dermatoligist to explain but dont get the answers i need as taking this powerful drug can and in my experience will effect the biggest part of the population who for one reason or another have had to try it as a last resort . but please please please get regular blood tests? and if in in way you feel your moods are changing just stop treament imediatly as belive it or not the roaccutane stays in your system for up to 7 yrs possibly life (take care all)
May 26th, 2007 at 10:43:50
well im nearly two months in now, im on 60mg
this drug has done some good work, it is not a miracle drug though.
Im a week short of tablets having counted, spoke to my dermy she says it stays in your system for over a month so il be taking a week off it
strange eh?
June 18th, 2007 at 13:29:44
Hi
Im writing on behalf of my b/friend. He is on Roaccutane going on 3 mths now..the side effects are gettin worse by the weeks..his face, neck, chest, back, arms and now his legs av got boil like pimles on them..he has juz started 2 get a rash on his arms..constant dry skin..constant dry and chapped also soar lips..his mood hasnt changed so muc that its causing any agro between us..he’s got so muc worse in the last couple of weeks, he finds it hard to face the day with the severity of his acne, i wud say that knowing my b/friend as i do that yes, he is depressed!! I feel so bad when he tels me he’s got sum new boils, he crys sumtimes
can any-one tel me how much worse it gets before it gets better?? 
June 20th, 2007 at 08:29:11
Elena: As far as I know the severity of an initial attack after you start it can vary. I’m not a dermatologist but my skin did flare up after starting Roaccutane.
Phil: Thanks for commenting. Sound advice on consulting your dermatologist on getting regular blood tests. If your acne wasn’t all that severe then I’d question why you were put on such a high dosage alright.
Alex: Good to hear its having a positive effect. Your right that it isn’t a miracle drug though.
Laura: The initial few weeks can be tough with rashs and severe dryness. However if he is still experiencing these effects after 3 months, he should consult his dermatologist. I’m not an expert in the area but 3 months sounds like a long time to still be experiencing severe side effects.
June 21st, 2007 at 12:40:06
hi,
your blog has give me some useful knowledge on roaccutane. i’m on it for almost four weeks now and i’ve yet to see any improvements. infact, my acne flare up pretty badly than before and this is really bugging me. the red bumps are all over my face and they’re so huge and cyctic. it’s very painful and itchy. it makes me want to pick and squeeze on them. will this result in severe scarring? and is it normal to get WORSE initially before being healed? how long will this WORSE stage prolong? did you experience such flare-ups? do advice please. i’m on a 20mg tablet daily.
June 22nd, 2007 at 07:33:13
my boyfriend is on a higher dose than you but even at that rate , yes his flared up pretty badly..his neck and face ive noticed a alot more in the last 3 weeks…yes, he picks and squeeses alot, (whenever im not around) because one can only imagine if you stick a pin in them that yes its gettin rid of puss but wats the long term,,,i.e. scarring?! He wears white vests under t-shirts and stuff and after his shower, he goes 2 bed and the next day he changes, only to take off his vest..ill quote him…” its like sum1 was murdered in that vest” and its true..they bleed like hell after his shower..his dry eyes are better wid Vividrin eye drops (12euro) but worth it..his lips (E45 lip balm)…he is due 2 visit his doctor Monday, cud any1 tel me if they think its necessary 4 him 2 make an appointment wid a dermo?? Personally, i think his doctor is very laxadaisy wid him!!!
June 25th, 2007 at 11:36:41
hi,
i did some online research and most people experienced the initial flare-ups for about 5 to 6 weeks. After that point, their skin started to improve and improve and improve! I’m into my 5th week now and cystic pimples are still popping up daily. Gosh…..i look so horrible in front of a mirror. And i got much comments on my bad bad skin every now and then T_T
Laura, i think it’s wiser for your boyfriend to visit a dermatologist. yea, his case is more severe than mine. i sincerely hope that roaccutane can give us a cure from this acne disease. It’s eating up my self-esteem! i feel so pathetic whenever i look at my peer’s glowing skin.
despite all the negative comments on roaccutane, i still choose to remain positive. pray daily for a fast recovery.
June 25th, 2007 at 16:10:37
hi amanda
you must be going through an awful time?? i can only magine wat its like 4u as a female
sounds like u are now how my b/friend was a couple of weeks ago..generaly pissed off?! he’s actually at the doctors now 4 another prescription..he’s gona try 4a higher dose and ive also begged with him 2 get his doc 2 make an appointment wit a dermo, so fingers crossed eh!! watever you feel, you must not feel pathetic, its unfortunate 4u at the mo but like you sa, stick it out and tings cudnt possibly get any worse..they can only improve with time and Roaccutane..keep in touch and take care 
Laura
June 26th, 2007 at 11:44:05
hi Laura,
i didnt realise that you could get a perscription for roaccutane without seein a dermo. I’m personally takin it at the moment and my dermo is bein extremely cautious with me, monitorin me v. closely, he wont even let my doctor do the blood tests for me it has to be done in his clinic just in case!! So i definitly think that he should see a dermo especially if he isnt seein ANY improvement!!
Steph
June 28th, 2007 at 08:23:11
i went on it, up to 60mg, only side effect i had was dry skin etc.it worked great with nor eal mood swings
June 28th, 2007 at 10:55:49
Hi I started Roaccutane 6 weeks ago and i have seen a massive difference.All my fore head has cleared and my cheeks are getting there.My acne was’nt the worst, it was quite lumpy my face.The side effects i have experience are Exema on my arms and legs , thats it really.It’s wonderful news about your face clearing.It works different for everyone and i always get monitored every month. Good luck for everyone on this site x
July 13th, 2007 at 15:15:12
Hi Everyone
I am a 21 year old girl and have been on Roaccutane for around 7 weeks now, I have to say, my skin is almost totaly spot free, and I love it. Only thing is the scarring on my cheeks! Does anyone know if this medication will help faid my scars? I think its helped faid a few scars already, but I dont know if its my imagination! Most people close to me have commented on how fresh my skin looks now and I feel much more confident.
I have had a few of the side effects but nothing too terrible, mild exima on my arms, dry chapped lips, dry eyes (still able to wear contact lenses though) The worst of my side effects are sore bones, back pain and really sore heels. feel like and 80 yr old woman at the moment, but it will be worth it in the long run.
I still get the odd spot here and there, but when I think of the state my face used to get in and how painful it was, the wee odd spot doesnt bother me now!!
July 15th, 2007 at 17:15:17
ROACUTANE SAVED MY LIFE
My skin was terrible, and i had no confidence, wouldn’t go out the house without layers and layers of foundation!,
when i was about 3 weeks into the treatment i suffered quite badly emotionally, depression, and regular mood swings, i just wasn’t myself.
My skin became increasingly better about a month and a half into it. gradually moving on in the corse of the treatment my skin was just becoming more fabulous every week!,
Most common sidefects for me were;
- dryness (EVERYWHERE!)
- mood swings
- aches and pains
If you do a regular sport i reccomend reducing the amount of it you do, a few days i couldn’t move whatsover!
although ive been left with a few red markings, this can easily be cured with laser treatment.
I come off my treatment tomorrow!!!!
I Definatley reccomend Roacutane!!!
My skin is flawless now!
You have to persevere with it but it is soooooo worth it!
See your dermotologist now!
July 24th, 2007 at 13:19:46
Hi guys! My sister was on Roaccutane a few years ago. Her skin was so so bad and gave her alot of image and confidence issues that she is still dealing with to this day. Roaccutane cured her of all the physicalities of Acne apart from of course the scarring. However she began using a cream called MSM that you can buy in any good health (food) shop and it has helped her scars immensely. She didn’t feel any depressive side-effects except for once when she had had some alcohol, it was the next day that she felt very very low. She only drank alcohol that once in the 6 months she was on the drug.
To be fair I think that each and every person is affected differently by Roaccutane. Best of luck to you all!
August 14th, 2007 at 18:07:25
I took roaccutane last june 12, 2005 and ended january 9 2006. I was on a dose of 40 mg. My acne gotten worst then..though i must admit i didnt have bad acne when i went to my dermatologist. Just can’t help seeing it appear everyweek! I suffered severe backaches! i cant even sit on a chair and had hard time getting up in the morning without help from my mom! I lost too much hair and made it so dry. I remembered in my course of roaccutane i think after 5 months my acne stopped. But i had to suffer from dryness all over my body! My hands are painful from rashes which ended up looking like eczema. And didnt know how to stop my face from peeling! Coz im working. Its so embarrasing really! i still had some of the scars it left me (when all my pimples are getting freak) But the result i got was worth every pain that i suffered..
But im afraid i wont recommend it to my sister.. i still feel the pain from my right side. And to this date..im having pimples again! Aarrggh! i thought it wont come back anymore?! Now i dont know if i have to take it again.. =( Im used to having clear and beautiful face.
September 1st, 2007 at 11:46:48
Hi, I’ve been on it for 2months out of 6. and the only side affects have been dry skin and lips. People clearly do get affected, but as long as you monitor your mood, and speak to people if it gets really bad, then I’d say try it.
September 6th, 2007 at 00:01:05
Hi all, I started the roaccutane treatment last wk,however i am slightly concerned now–my dermatologist prescribed it-mentioned “the few” side effects and told me to come back next month for a prescription. However, i read the leaflet and it said all these blood tests were very important esp. if i am overweight. Im wondering will my dermatologist do these or should i inform my doc. i am on it–i wish i should have asked a few other questions
September 6th, 2007 at 00:02:53
if anyone could inform me a.s.a.p i would be very happy as my dermatologist is away.
October 9th, 2007 at 21:33:13
hi,
I was on Roaccutane for 8 months 5 years ago. It cleared my skin and I suffered little side effects from it apart from dry lips. My brother was put on it though by the same dermatologist for a few months and his acne flared up badly- the dermatologist put him on steroids to reduce the swelling but it only made the situation worse. He was then recommended laser surgery which cost my parents 1000 euro at the time. His face was severely burnt for a few weeks after the laser treatment and that too did little good.
Shortly after he was recommended another dermatologist by a friend. This dermatologist told him that he should have been taken off roaccutune after his acne began to get worse. She recommended he follow a strict skin care regime using neostrata fashwash in the morning, spf lotion during the day, zindaclin lotion on spots and diffrin gel twice a week- anti aging neostrata cream the other 5 nights. Two months later his skin had improved dramatically.
2 years after coming off roaccutane i suffered another breakout and went to the new dermatologist- she put me on the same regime that i have been following for the past 2-3 years- it has left my skin clear and soft. She told me that 8 months is far too long to be on roaccutane especially considering the long term effects it can have on the liver!!
October 9th, 2007 at 21:38:24
forgot to add that she also said it is important to be given a prescription for suitable topical lotions once finished course of roccantune- she said that if not it will reoccur. Apparently once you have bad acne it is important to always have a special regime for cleansing etc in order to prevent it reoccurring…
November 13th, 2007 at 03:55:29
hi, i started roaccutane about a week ago now and my skin is less oily but the swelled acne under my skin, particulary on my neck is getting worse. i use a non-oil moisturiser twice a day and use vaseline onmy dry lips. two of my freinds were on roaccutane and ther skin is amazing now hope i have the same luck!
November 14th, 2007 at 13:02:46
I am 41 yrs old now but I was one of the first ginny pigs to try Accutane (it’s only name then) as a young person. Mom had tried every drug and old school remedy known to man and nothing was working. She read over the material and discussed it with me to make sure it’s what I wanted to do. I did. I did get headaches and nose bleeds but my skin sure cleared up great! I don’t know about it now but you cannot be out in the sun while taking this drug. I laid out and it made my chest peel up with blisters real bad. I have scars from those blisters. I should have paid more attention to the side effects material. It has never come back on my face since but has moved to my neck some. I did have scars and eventually got a face peel and some buffing surgery. My surgery did not work well…I think it was the doctor. Good luck!
November 14th, 2007 at 23:26:35
Hi
I’m in my sixth month of taking this drug and have to say it has been horrible. I didn’t get any side affects too badly but got them all to some extent. From sore joints (especially heels) to bouts of depression, nose bleeds, dry eyes, inside of nose, lips. Problem is I dunno if it is working. I have keloid scars that I hoped would stop spreading but they haven’t. I got betnovate cream to deal with the skin dryness on my hump which works wonders. I spread it on my face fairly regular too. I saw my dermo in early June and he told me to come back in January!! On 80mg a day which I believe is related to body weight. I did getta blood test at the very start but have had no follow up by the dermo. Should I be worried? Anyway only 30 days to go till I’m back out in the big bad world.
November 15th, 2007 at 13:04:03
Hie i started roaccutane on the 1st of this month and already there is a lot of improvement on my face – people have started to ask me what im using but it comes with side effects though, i have dry lips i use a lip balm with spf 15 and my whole body used to be dry and itchy until i decided to apply it with tissue oil twice a day morning and nite and now i have peace. The only thing problem that i have now is my breasts have started swelling which i have told my doctor and i’m going for review on monday but all in all everything is fine. No mood swings – i guess we all have different side effects and it works according to how your body accommodates it. So i’m keeping my fingers crossed for me to be off it soon cause i need to apply spf 15 on my body everytime i go outside
November 19th, 2007 at 14:58:30
hi everyone i havnt wrote for a while soz/ ive been reading the various comments left in the forum lately and im surprised that the most common thing near everyone writes about is the varying degree of non follow up appointments to check bloods, and moods, ect ect. again i would urge anyone whom is taking roaccutane to make sure that you make regular appointments with your dermatologist even when your treament is apparntly working for you .please remember this drug might in some people not give you the side effecs that most people recive but with follow up appointments its better to safe than sorry .(thanks for listening take care)
November 20th, 2007 at 11:41:23
hi
I was very woried startin the roaccutane as with the side effcts i heard about. but I eventually decided I would go on it because i really wanted 2 clear up my acne. when i statred first i was put on 25mg a day……2 get used of it!……and den after 2 weeks or so i was put on 50mg a day! I am on it 4 nd a half months now nd at he begining the only side effects i had wer very dry lips nd dry eyes…..for a while at the start my back was a bit sore nd also had the odd mood swings….but you get half these things and you dont need to be on tablets at all!! I would also recommend 2 go 2 a dermatolgist becuase they no way more about skin then doctors and i went to a dermatolgist nd der gud….I also got bloodtests every month 2 make sure the tablets werent effectin my body n any way!! u may think the tablets arent workin but dey r cuz thats what i thought but its cuz ur skin is so sensitive that it lus red and makes it lu worse but its actually improvin!
gud luk 2 everyone on da tablets
der well worth it!
nd ask me ne questions….hope i can help!!
January 10th, 2008 at 23:21:06
Was somebody permanently cured thanks to roaccutane? I got scared now! Will acne ever disappear forever??
February 6th, 2008 at 15:54:23
hi
had extremely bad acne on my face, chest and shoulders. tried everything. went to dermatologist and was put on 70 mg of this drug. i was told it would get worse before it got better. it did. dry skin, more acne etc. after 9 to 12 months the acne disappeared on my face. Brilliant. the chest and shoulder areas were cleared up but some keloid scarring was left. i got steroid injections to flatten them out. there gone now, redness and all. this drug is excellent. went on it when i was 14 and i’m 22 now and there still gone. sun holiday every year helps big time. hope this helps.
February 25th, 2008 at 16:01:57
hi
and am goin to have another course because my face is itching alot and its killing me 
.
i had sever acne before but when i had Reccautan course my face became perfect, i was on 40mg per day but unfortunately acne came back again maybe after 3 months later
i just wanna know is it possible for acne to appear even after the second course
March 7th, 2008 at 09:34:30
omg, wud evryone get over it. im one of the 30% that has to go on roaccutane for the second time and its not that bad. so ur a little tired… get over it… u weren on it twice
March 21st, 2008 at 14:53:21
hey guys
I took Roaccutane about four years ago after living with acne for 10 long years.I was at the end of my rope when I became a walking moon lol (crater face).I had SEVERE acne as bad as it gets.So at 23yrs old I decided to take Roaccutane I was pretty naive to the side effects and to be honest didnt care anyway i was that desperate.Im a true believer that you can create problems if you think about it enough i also think that acne itself is depressing and that outbreak stage you go through can really bring you down too.Not to mention the low self esteem you get from acne and at times the disgusted looks and comments you get from people.Yes that is very depressing therefore can it truely be blamed on the drug.I dont think so.If I was ever depressed while I was on this drug it was because my acne got worse before it got better.If I had mood swings well I am female lol and I did have two children at that time lol.Chances are theres probably other things going on that make a stressful time even worse.It was all worth it.I actually got to see the beautiful face that people said I had but I could never see.I found the courage to find love.I never had to think about weather people were looking at me in disgust.And strangly enough I lost a fair amount of weight but that could have been due to thinking I was the sheez and ripping it up on the dancefloor lol.Anyway now I am an appointment away from going back on it yes it has returned althougth no where near as bad but bad enough.Guess what Im saying is dont stress guys.Definately educate yourselves but dont linger on the negative stuff your whole life will present itself with decisions that bring some negativitys and the only way to overcome that is to focus on the positive things.Im not sweating having to do this for the second time because I know what the outcome is for me and yes I will do it again if need be.Well thats my novel guys oh there was a point to all this which is did anyone else lose weight on Roaccutane??
April 2nd, 2008 at 09:32:49
Hey im just on Roaccurane 1 week
my skin is clearer already……..but very dry can anyone recommend a moisturiser that doesnt burn?
April 4th, 2008 at 22:54:14
hi…im 18 and i went to a dermatologist last week cuz ive quite bad acne.. its not very severe but wana clear it before i get older as it will be harder to get rid of it then.. but kinda nervous because of some of the side effects im hearing about
im also going on holz in bout 6 weeks, just wondering does sun effect it much?? 
April 11th, 2008 at 17:25:50
Starting it tonight. Nervous.
April 11th, 2008 at 22:19:39
Hey guys, Ive been on roaccutane for 3 months now and it’s made a huge difference to my skin. I had mild cystic acne which had not really responded to long term use of anti-biotics. My face and lips are very dry, however my skin would be quite dry anyway, and i find that i can use really heavy moisturisers (which dont cause breakouts as they would have in the past). My heels are very sore and ive noticed that they are more sore the more exercise I do, however im not letting that put me off!! I have had regular blood tests 9every 8 weeks) and also a pregnancy test every month. From my personal experience, i would recommed roaccuatne.
Lorraine – I use E45 on my face and bio-oil, I use vaseline on my lips 9and sometimes up my nose).
April 20th, 2008 at 23:42:19
Hi all. the reason i’m emailing is because i want to talk about my experience with Roaccutane. after living with acne for the best part of 20 years, (i’m 34), i started taking Roaccutane about 3 months ago. i never had good skin and that i was always prone to lots of zits and a huge amount of blackheads. in the last 10 years, in particular, i watched my skin deteriorate to the point where i had blackheads all over my face and on my chest. i became v depressed about this and often wondered where it would all end. i watched all my friends grow out of spots in their 20s while my skin just got worse and worse and worse. i felt very ugly, to be honest. before roaccutane i tried Dianette which didn’t work at all. then i tried Isotrexin a topical lotion – that didn’t work either. i tried salon facials and various over the counter skin treatments. i spent a fortune and none made any difference. i was then put on a course of Minocycline – tablets that i took twice daily and they made my skin so much worse that even the doctor was surprised at the state of it. she referred to a dermatologist and said that this was the only option left for me as we had tried everything else. so i went to the dermatologist who took one look at my skin and prescribed Roaccutane. he said that nothing else would work and that Roaccutane was the last and only option for persistent acne like mine especially as i had tried everything else. he also said that it wouldn’t fail to work. he was right. i’ve been taking it for about 3 months now and its like a miracle. almost all the blackheads have disappeared from my face. some came out in my hands when i touched my face. its obvious that any remaining ones will vanish soon. my pores have tightened up and are not so large and visible. my foundation no longer slides off my face 1 hour after applying it. i just can’t believe this and i’m much happier in myself. i must admit Roaccutane is a hardcore treatment in that it makes your skin regenerate faster so there is noticeable peeling but a good moisturiser keeps it under control. it also makes my lips very dry but vaseline helps enormously with that. i’ve been told this is only a short term side effect. since adolescence, my skin, hair, arms and back were always extremely greasy. i had to wash my hair twice a day, if i was going out that night. my skin was like an oil slick all the time. my skin is now normal. i don’t wash my hair everyday anymore because i don’t need to. i wash it twice a week and it doesnt even need that. the texture of my skin has changed. its much softer. i was starting to get a few wrinkles with age, but they have smoothed out very noticeably. the only advice i can give to anyone reading this is don’t wait till you’re 34 like me to sort your skin out. your acne might never clear up on its own, untreated. mine didn’t. don’t live with acne. why should you? i know Roaccutane doesnt work for everyone – i’ve read that other people have had bad experiences with it. but so far, it’s clearly working for me. i’d love to hear from anyone out there with similar experiences as i’ve often felt very alone and isolated having acne. people with good skin will never know how awful it is to suffer acne. lucky them. i wouldn’t wish it on my worst enemy. fingers crossed anyway folks, i’ll keep you posted on my progress.
April 22nd, 2008 at 12:37:34
22/04
Hi All,
Well its day 2 for me on roaccutane at 20mg a day – im happy i have FINALLY been put on it – after months & months of topical creams, bp gel, antibiotics, vitamins, and a healthy eating plan – nothing of which worked and i kept getting nasty angry red looking spots
Anyways saw my derm yesterday and she talked about antibiotics and i told her they just dont work and whats the point of been put on them – they are doing nothing! So she checked my skin and had a poke around and checked with the head derm to seek permission for roaccutane – i am on a low does at 20mg a day as my acne is only lumpy and i get lots of whiteheads around my right cheek and mouth, chin area – however my forehead and left side is fine and clear.
I have got very greasy skin & its highly sensitive and itchy..well anyways i had my blood test and im taking it – so far got a headache and aching a little but think this is just from the anxiety of blood test this morning – god i hate them!
Just hoping to see some good results in the next couple of weeks – seeing my derm in 1 months time so will see what happens….fingers crossed!!!
Have been on this stuff before and boy is it good…it cleared my skin right up to perfection…. i have taken dianette and all topical stuff u name it but i feel this is probably last course of action….so happy i got it – and hoping to see some improvements as its been a tough few months and my acne has really gotten me depressed!! anyways fingers crossed and good luck to all out there on this – i wish u all well and best of luck xxx keep strong and happy and things will come good!!! babysteps but it will happen!!!! xxxx
April 25th, 2008 at 00:11:38
hello to all,
im a journalism student and doing an investigative report on Accutane for my final year. ive read all the comments and they’ve been really helpful, im just wondering though: Have many people here been prescribed accutane by a regular GP rather than a specialist dermatologist? and does anyone here believe they were properly monitered for signs of depression during and after the treatment?
i would greatly appreciate any feedback from anyone, i have found that most people i know have never even heard of the drug, and i would like to bring more light to the topic, although i know that everyones experiences have not been negative.
Many thanks
May 16th, 2008 at 14:32:11
i was told by my dermatologist yesterday that it was up to me whether i take roaccutane or not. i said i feel it’s the only option left to me after 20 years of antibiotics, creams, lotions and the contraceptive pill.the problem is i already suffer anxiety and depression so have been doing some online research to ensure i make the right decision. i am the same age as jill and have exactly the same skin problems she used to. i still don’t know if taking it would be the best move for me, but my skin is much worse now than it was as a teen. if there’s anyone else reading this who has taken this drug in similar circumstances i would love to hear your experiences. i have 6 weeks to go before i start taking it to make sure i’m covered by contraception, so i have time to change my mind.
May 25th, 2008 at 01:04:34
i got acne when i was ten and have had it ten yrs. was on every antibiotic even dianette at 14 for 4yrs. have 2 PILE on makeup 2 look half normal(i dont no how id live without it). get scared 2 go out in daylight etc dont hav much of a life, its a pity cos i take really gud care of myself wit exercise and diet and hav hardly any other problems. finally been put on roaccutane 3wks ago,havent had any depession or anything yet, i actually feel happier than i have in a long time. im so exited about the results, iv had a few small side effects but i dont care im sure it’ll be worth it!
June 25th, 2008 at 12:58:13
I am 37 years old
I never had acne in my life but last summer acne started to show on my nech then on my face the right side then started on the other side. I tried 2 kinds of antibiotecs but doesn’t work . Before 4 months and half I started roaccutane 40 mg daily my weith is 64 kilos from the 2nd. week the acne stopped and after one month I couldn’t see any Acne on my face. It worked like magic but after 4 months of using it I stared to feel always tired and dryness.
The doctor told me its enough and you can stop the roaccutane .
I am very worried is 4 months and half are enough of taking roaccutane .
I am worried if the acnes after 3 or 4 months start again.can you advise me if I can stop the roaccutane .
June 26th, 2008 at 00:28:56
My first app with the dermo was in 1995 i had what was called pitariasis(not sure of spelling) all over my torso It looked like a rash with hives,boils in the pattern of my ribcage. (That went away but have it on my legs and face.) Since then i have been on antibiotics,had every kind of cream + pill,injection, test you can think of, microdermabrasin, Spent thousands at the likes of Skin focus,1998 Roaccutane for eight months for systic acne feeling real bad by this stage. Dint work for me,hated it. I tried healthshops ie potions, tablets Proactive, everything. I am now 29. have just invested in a dermawand we will see how that goes. As i am completly over it i had two moles removed on my face this week so now have stitches also am back on antiboitics, antidepressants I use cetaphil face wash and intensive moisturiser someone told me i need to see myself as more than just my skin. i agree but that is a hard thing to do. how can you feel semi normal when you look like a freak on the outside? and as for the comment get over it from someone, Thats what we are trying to do people like you do not help!
July 15th, 2008 at 00:03:44
Hi all,
wow im not alone. I went to see a dermotologist a couple of weeks ago and she prescribed Roaccutane. She took bloods before I started the course and will monitor them every 6 weeks in the hospital. Ive noticed over the last two weeks of taking them (mind you im only on 10 mg progressing to 20mgs this week) that my skin is drier, tighter, and my lips are all cracked as well as eyes dry.Some back discomfort. Try “ceralip by La Roche-Posay” for the lips. Handy size tube to carry around. I really think its so important to seek a dermotologist that understands how dangerous these really are, so that they will monitor the course regulary and carefully. Doctors do not speciallise in skin dissorders and some times prescribe these without realizing the effects they have. I have systic acne which recently one developed under my arm pit. After a couple of weeks it was the size of half a golf ball and extremely sore. Im hopping this will not reacure though it has scarred badly. Will keep you all updated if any mad changes!
Good luck to us all!
July 29th, 2008 at 16:27:39
I’m glad it worked for you.
Reading through the replies, it would seem that people have had mixed experiences with this medication.
I’m 17 and have just finished my 6 month course, and can vouch for much of what has been said here.
Yes, your lips get dry (all the frickin’ time), as does your skin, but It’s the worse side effects that worry me.
There was a noticeable affect on my mental state, to the point where I considered going off the medication.
Depression can quite often result from this drug, and I’m hoping it goes away soon after ceasing treatment.
However, the acne that I had is completely gone, and hopefully for good.
Anyone looking to go on this medication?
I advise you research thouroughly and keep in mind that it affects people in different ways.
If you do decide it is worth it, remember to keep tabs on the way you feel, don’t just pass it off.
August 11th, 2008 at 12:34:24
I am 36 and have cystic acne since i was around 16. I took dianette up until a year and half ago and this kept my skin beautifully clear. I actually thought I had grown out of the acne. However i came off the pill in Nov 06 and the following summer (last summer) the cysts reappeared. theyre not as bad as they used to be but they’re still bad. Anyway, I’ve been taking anti-biotics since last september and they do work. I have an appointment for October to see a dermatologist about taking roaccutane as i don’t want to take antibiotics forever and I don’t want to take the pil again. I’m just wondering what people think….am i mad to take such a heavy duty drug, when I could just continue taking antibiotics with no side effects at all?
August 15th, 2008 at 18:03:56
Hi, I was put on Roaccutane about 5 years ago. This was a pretty new drug at the time and not alot was know about it, or the side effects. I got it on the NHS which at the time was rare and a normal course was about £500!!! i had two courses. Whilst taking the drug, initially i didnt see any improvement. After about two months my skin began to improve. I didnt experience any of the dry skin or chapped lips, however i was getting about 7 severe nose bleeds a day (not good when your a chef). I perservered with the treatment and i can honestly say that it was well worth it. 5 years later i have hardly had any flare ups, only the odd spot here and there on my face, although my forehead didnt really see much improvement but i have a fringe to cover that!! I had regular blood tests whilst i was on the medication, and was also given an allergy test prior to taking starting it. it worked for me….give it a go but make sure you are monitored regularly.
August 19th, 2008 at 14:08:10
Hi all. Glad to see that this topic is still being discussed. Please feel free to continue to share your experiences.
August 19th, 2008 at 16:51:04
I’ve been on Roaccutane for two months now (i’m 27) and have definitely seen an improvement. I have never had clear skin and was initially using Dianette to help however after a nasty bout before christmas that left me with scars i was referred to the dermatologist. I am on 60mg so three tablets a day and am two months in. I have an appointment with the dermatologist next week for my check up to see how things are. Its odd because i seem to be the only person on Roaccutane mainly for scars and not actual spots so for those worried about scarring it might also help. The scars on my back have all but nearly gone (and they were very deep scars) and the ones on my face i can see getting lighter. My face is also not as greasy as it used to be – have hardly touched face powder since i’ve been on it!
My main side effects have only been very dry lips (started on my fourth day), very dry inside of my nose which results in scabs (nice but at least no-one sees them!) and slightly dry skin on my face (can only say i’ve noticed it twice when i’ve dried my face with a towel a bit too hard). I do have very sore heels at the moment which i’m not sure if are a side effect – can’t think what else it could be so going to check with the dermatologist. I did have an odd rash appear on a flight – looked like blisters that had popped, wasn’t sore just looked a bit horrible. On the flight home i made sure i put lots of moisturisers on my arms and i avoided it – don’t think the dryness of my skin mixed with the dryness of the air in the plane mixed very well!
Everybody is so different – i was really worried after reading some side effects but if you don’t give it a try, you’ll never know. Good luck to everyone that is on it – it will be worth it in the end
August 30th, 2008 at 22:25:53
im 16 and ive had fairly bad skin for about two years, and i went to a dermatologist who put me on roaccutane for a course of 8 weeks on 20mg so thats one tablet a day. I have to say the difference is amazing!!! in just 8 weeks? I did get one or two nosebleeds to begin with and my skin got fairly dry but my dermatologist recommend loads of creams&gels aswell that work with the drug!! I would have to recommend zindaclin gel which i put on between 7 & 9 each night and then before i got to sleep i either use a neostrate moisturiser or once a week i use differin gel which is a topical drup for acne!! I think all this worked really well together! Im back on it again now for 4weeks just to neaten up a few spots. I would recommend roaccutane if your willing to take the risk!!
August 31st, 2008 at 13:09:29
im on roaccutane going into my ninth week now, it was my first day back today at playing basketball. I didnt stop runinng for an hour and when i was finished i notice my face was as red as a tomato, no exageration on that, people were asking me if i was ok !! its nerly two hours later and my face is still bright red . is this something thats going to be a problem for the rest of my course of roaccutane!?
September 16th, 2008 at 22:03:32
I used Roccautaine a few years ago. Apart from one incident of uncontrollable crying [embarrassing] I had no side effects at all and the drug worked a treat. It was the best money I have ever spent. My GP was very thorough and did regular blood tests. Given the strength of this drug regular meetings with your GP and vigilance are advised. Best of luck to everyone considering this.
September 30th, 2008 at 21:14:50
Hi Joanne,i’ve the same problem.my face is as red as a beetroot and peeling like i’ve ecezema.this is my third time on roaccutane.i was on it 4 d first time at 15.i had beautiful skin til i was 21,my acne came back.i went back on roaccutane again and it cleared up again.it was only around 6 months ago that it came back again.i’m 26.i am told i’m an exception.the side effects are definitely worse this time.people n work tink keep lookn at me.ah well.i hope it works for good dis time.i think u do get a little depressed on it tho.i tink it’s a mixture of not knowing if it will work and the side-effects.i found i’ve got drunk way quicker as well. mayb that’s a good ting as it’s so frigging expensive.how is everyone else finding d expense of it?but it really does work so please don’t get disheartened.it does give u loads of confidence.you’ll feel like a new person x
October 6th, 2008 at 00:33:47
I have just finished a course of 16 weeks of isotretinoin and just wanted to say that for me the results have been fantastic. Like some of the girls who have already left comments i have had acne for about 20 years. I am 39 and while I did not have severe or cystic acne all over my face, I had some spots all of the time, I think the last time I didn’t have a spot was about 7 years ago. All through this time I had gone back and forth to my GP only to be sent home with yet another repeat prescription for antibiotics that only worked on and off. Eventually in May of this year I booked a private appointment with a dermatologist with a view to having laser treatment. I was told that laser would not clear my skin and that my only hope to clear persistant acne like mine was isotretinoin. I wasn’t keen on the idea but decided to give it a go. I took 60mg daily for 16 weeks and I will be honest, it is a very harsh drug and I seemed to be the poster girl for side effects, I had, and still have them all, dry lips, dry nose and nosebleeds,dry scalp and some hairloss, peeling hands and feet, headaches and tiredness at the beginning and very sore,stiff joints, sore muscles after exercise, just being in the shower mske my face tight and shiny and so red I look like I’ve been blow torched. I had to stop using all my fairly expensive beauty products and started to use Simple cleanser and toner and their facial SPF30 moisturiser which are all fantastic and very soothing, and much to my husbands pleasure cheap! I’ve just re-read this and it would put me off using this treatment but I would tell anyone to use it, when I look in the mirror now and see my clear skin and know that i can leave the house wearing only mascara and vaseline on my lips, I know I would do it again if I had to, and I could cry for the fact that I waited all these years to do it. What I would also say is that this treatment has cost me almost £900 nad while it is worth it, please do not go private, it is your right to ask your GP to refer you to a consultant dermatologist (my derm told me this after I had contacted him)and sometimes you just need to stand up for yourself, I wish I had because then i could have had £900 worth of botox instead, much more appropriate for my age!
October 21st, 2008 at 23:47:45
im on my second course and im just wondering if roaccutane actually permanently cures acne? my dermatologist said that it does for around 80%, about 17% need a second course and around 3% need a course. but from all ur comments it seems that the acne returns so im just thinking what is the point
October 22nd, 2008 at 22:58:46
Ciara, please stick wit it. For the sake of great skin possibly forever, it’s well worth. i normally have clear skin for five years before it comes back but i’m in the minority. it is a brilliant drug so please stick with it. u seem a little down?take to ur family but don’t get depressed.i’m telling u, it’ll work.
November 1st, 2008 at 01:05:49
Hi everyone,ive had acne since i was about 12 iam 24 now and ive had enough it comes and goes with differant levels of severity…..so ive made an appointment with a dermo to go on rocataine….ive been on other medication before and nothing has worked.The only problem is iam a recovering drug addict and alcoholic and iam wondering about the depression people talk about and is rocataine addictive?it seems to get mixed reviews i think iam gonna go for it iam sick to hell of having acne,it really effects my self-esteem….the side effects cant be as bad as coming off drink and drugs!!!
November 4th, 2008 at 10:36:52
Hi Paddy, I don’t think roaccutane is addictive as its just a large dose of vitamin A, the only possible thing I could think of that you may have trouble with is the effect it has on the liver especially if you’re a recovering alcoholic but I’m sure your dermatologist will ask you all manner of questions before they prescribe it to you. I have just finished my course and although I had some side effects (very dry lips, blood every time I blew my nose, very sore heels and dry skin that looked like dried blisters to name the worst!) I never experienced any depression infact there wasn’t a change in my personality at all. I think if you start taking them with the attitude that you’re going to experience side effects (from what I have read no-one seems to have the same ones!) and that you’re acne may get worse to begin with you should be ok. I know someone that refuses to read up about other peoples experiences or look at before and after pictures to show that there is a positive outcome (acne.org have a good section on roaccutane which I looked at when I first started as I was quite daunted) and he seems to be getting quite down. The more you are prepared and understand that changes in you will probably be down to the tablets and will only last for the duration you will get on fine. I even managed to run a 10mile race on them which shocked my dermatologist!! A positive attitude will get you far – good luck at the dermatologist.
November 5th, 2008 at 05:43:01
I’m on my second day of Roaccutane.
I have not had a single day of clear skin (or even good skin) for the last 14 years (I’m almost 25 years old). My school formal, wedding day and various other event were all marred by my skin. While in labour with my children I refused to shower because I didnt want my makeup to wash off and me to look all spotty in the post-birth photographs. Reading back on that you must think I’m vain – I’m not, but people who have experienced acne would know how it can change you as a person.
I have been on every different acne med known to man I reckon. The pill, years of oral antibiotics, topical lotions, different facewashes, scrubs, salon treatments, microdermabrasion, etc. This (according to my derm) is the last point of call. Wish me luck – I have all faith that this will work, if not the first course, maybe the second. Either way it WILL work and one day I will wake up and look in the mirror and for the first time since I was a kid. . . I will smile.
November 6th, 2008 at 13:36:33
Hi everyone,
)
I’m on my 3rd day of roaccutane.
I’m 33 years old and I’ve had acne for as long as I can remember…
I finally took the big decision to go to my dermatologist and demand that she would help me get rid of my acne. She immediately recommended roaccutane. She informed me clearly of all the possible side effects and told me that – being a woman – I need to be monitored closely while taking the drug. this means that I need to have a blood and pregnancy test every month. It is comforting that I’m being monitored so closely.
So far, I haven’t experienced any side effects (but I suppose it would be a bit soon after only 3 days
I hope I can come back to this forum soon and report on the wonderful effects of roaccutane! Fingers crossed…
November 11th, 2008 at 18:53:22
Im living in Ireland and Im on roaccutane at the moment just to tidy up some scarring. In the last few days the weather has gotten really really bitter and just from walking the ten minute walk to and from school my skin has gone really dry , it feels like its been burnt off and its sore to move my jaw as its the worst around my chin. has anyone any tips on how to overcome this dryness and cracke skin?
November 19th, 2008 at 19:37:46
hey guys i started the roaccutane a week and a half ago. i would deem myself to have a fairly severe case of acne. im 18 and im on the 20mg… should i be on a higher dosage does anyone know?
November 25th, 2008 at 07:48:48
Joanne/Jacob
You could use some kind of moisturiser. During my course of it I didn’t use soap or shower gel as the dermo recommended an imolient (spelling??) to use instead. I’m in Ireland too and the level of dermo service here is poor but ring your dermo and ask him what he suggests. You GP won’t have the expertese to advise you.
Jacob
it is based on body weight. You are normally on a half dose for the first month so it will probably go up after that. I was on 80mg for most of my course and am 80kg.
November 25th, 2008 at 09:46:18
Jacob – i think it all depends on your dermatologist. I was on three 20mg tablets a day for four months as my dermatologist preferred to give a larger dose for a shorter period of time and no blood tests. If you’re worried, ask and they will explain it to you – it may all be down to what was causing the acne etc.
December 1st, 2008 at 18:19:54
Hi all just been reading all your comments on this drug and i really dont know what to make of it. My brother has just come home from visiting a derm for the first time and he has been prescribed this. He has a severe case of acne on his back and chest. These are the only areas that he has it his face has not been affected but after reading some of the side effects that it can flare up, get worse, depression, really dry skin so much that its sore and back pain etc. Im really thinking is it really worth it.
December 2nd, 2008 at 13:13:01
hey all im on my 2nd week of roaccutane
but im bein treated for both acne and pitysirasis vesicolor is it normal for ur hands to get blistera and a red raw rash on them?????? help
December 2nd, 2008 at 20:28:50
hey!!!
jessie, i really think roaccutane is worth it for your brother!
Im only 17 and ive had bad skin since i was 15, i mean it wasnt that bad , makeup would cover it up and i wud be fine but it was bad enough to make me feel uncomfortable. I went on roaccutane for 5 months on a very low dosage and i havent had a spot or anything since september! i really and honestly think its worth it..that depression thing happens to people but not everyone and my derm told me it only usually happens to people with a history of depression and at that its still very rare. The worst i got was dry skin and my derm told me about moisturisers i could use to help.
I hope i was of some use .
December 3rd, 2008 at 12:24:09
Jessie – i would say that the majority of people that are prescribed Roaccutane get a side effect of some sort so your brother is most likely to. Depression is a rare side effect and i’m sure if a member of your family notice a change in him then he can always stop. I think its worth trying – i had scars from acne across my shoulders and they’ve cleared up brilliantly.
Jane – i had a red rash on my arms and the skin near my ankle after week 7 (was on the tablets for 8 weeks) which looked like i had small burst blisters that had burst, if that makes sense?! I used a moisturiser for very dry skin which contains lipids (think it was a vaseline one) which sorted out the dryness really well. If you’re worried see your dermatologist as they’ll be able to explain your side effects and say how to deal with them. The only advice i can give is to moisturise each morning and night regardless of whether your skin feels dry or not. Good luck and don’t let it get you down!
January 10th, 2009 at 00:52:13
Hi
I am 27 of indian origin – female. I get on average 2 ugly pipmles a week. I am 45 kg and have been prescribed 30 mg for the first two weeks and thereafter 50 mg. My dermatologist says it will probably take 6 months. Does this dosage sound familiar to anyone. Thank you
January 19th, 2009 at 16:40:15
Hi Rania. You are correct that the dose is based on your body weight. I am 78kg amd was on 80mg. So as you are 45kg’s, 50mg seems about right. I too was on a half dose for the first few weeks. Best of luck with it.
January 22nd, 2009 at 23:57:02
thank you. amazingly my skin had cleared just before i bought the medication. playing tricks with my mind…
this has gotta work – else i need Micheal Jackson’s treatment
January 26th, 2009 at 15:42:29
Hi there,
I was on roaccutane about 8 years ago now and I just want people to know it was the best thing that ever happened me. I had tried so many acne treatments and medications and nothing worked until my dermatologist put me on roaccutane. Although it was a very tough 6 months suffering from very very sensitive and dry skin and the odd mood swing, it was definatley worth it. Besides the odd spot around “that time of the month” I have never suffered from acne since. I believe if you keep at it, it will be worth it in the end. NO PAIN, NO GAIN!!!
February 12th, 2009 at 13:54:08
Question for all the people it has worked for, ive been on it for 2 weeks now and have been getting some of the mild side effects such as the skin and lips but have not noticed any improvement yet, not even a mild one. For the people it has worked for how long on average does it take to work?
February 17th, 2009 at 15:32:40
Hi there
Not very nice!! My question is how safe are you if you have the mirena coil in and taking Roaccutane, that wasnt explained very well to me and I am very worried!
Im into my 3rd week on roaccutane now, Im 21 and I am on 70mgs a day, my acne isnt that bad its more scarring. So far Im finding the skin peeling a nightmare, Moisturiser stings like hell! But hey if it works! My skin is red raw now at this stage, quite paranoid over that! And in the last few days Ive gotten a bad break out of spots, particularly around my mouth!!
February 23rd, 2009 at 13:39:34
My 4th week now @ 40mgs a day and im still not any better. Got another month after this but i know damn well it wont work just like the millions of other tablets ive taken over the years! My skin altough peeling dosnt seem as bad as yours but my lips are in an awful state. My face in even redder than usual aswell.
February 24th, 2009 at 14:12:15
Hi Vinny. You seem to be on a fairly low dosage compared to others on here but it depends on your body weight. Sorry it’s not working for you yet. I saw an improvement pretty soon but it will vary depending on severity of acne. Were you given a half doese initially? As that seems to be the norm. Also I was on it for 6 months not 2. Maybe you are not seeing results yet due to your dose? Your dermo should be putting you on too low a dose initially to see how you react to it as it is a very potent drug.
February 25th, 2009 at 14:16:25
Thanks paddy, my acne isnt that severe anymore but its still noticanle all the same. I rekon i will be put on a higher dose for another 2 months when i go back to my dermo in a months time
April 23rd, 2009 at 02:08:33
Sweet blog entry, Anto.
I’m 21 and I’ve been taking Roaccutane for a week now, 20mg daily. I really want to fast forward six months and just see the results, you know? I amn’t expecting any improvements in the first week, but I’m curious, when do most people notice visibly clearer skin? Some people have said six or so weeks, is that the norm? Only thing I have noticed is dry lips but I’m not sure if that’s a subconscious thing where I’m expecting my lips to get dry and I start licking them. Not looking forward to possible sore joints and/or depression.
I’m taking a picture every day to track the progress. Fingers crossed.
April 25th, 2009 at 11:20:56
@John: Cheers for the comment. As you can see, a lot of people are on Roaccutane. It’s a good while since I was so they’ll be able to guide you better than I can. Best of luck.
May 1st, 2009 at 15:28:18
hey there,
i took roaccutane as i felt very low about myself and even my skin improved a lot – almost perfect skin(and i was dealing with acne vulgaris before)this drug made me feel suicidal and i didn’t know why. reading throgh this i saw a post where someone said something about a boy killing himself. well, i felt nothing talking about death or thinking about it while and after i took roaccutane. anyway, if you feel that you can cope with depression- it might not even have the same side effects on you as it did on me- you will definitely see great results.
May 6th, 2009 at 12:24:07
i just started roaccutane today and i dont really no wat 2 expect…ive had a course or two on some antibiotics and they didnt really do anything for me…i just hope now this works because after this theres nothing else for me…i suppose my skin isnt too bad, like ive seen worse b4…any1 tell me wat to expect???
thanks, luke
May 6th, 2009 at 12:39:13
@ Luke:
I’ve been on it now for two weeks and I’ve just began to get chapped lips. I got one nose bleed so far but I’m not sure if that’s relevant, I used to get them all the time before.
May 6th, 2009 at 13:36:08
Hey Luke and John Dry lips and dry nose seem to be pretty standard. As are aching joints. You’ll feel like an old man some mornings. Flaky skin seems fairly common too. U*se Vaseline for the lips and nose and some kind of imolient (spelling) moisturiser when showereing. These will help a little. Don’t wear black clothes as loose skin from the face and hair will be falling all the time. Good luck with it. Any more questions just ask
May 7th, 2009 at 12:41:45
LUKE, like paddy said expect flakes of bad skin to fall off constantly. Im 3 months in now and 1 month into my9 5mg a day dose which was ahuge jump form the 40mg beforehand. ON top of the previous drawbacks im getting very tired now especially tiredness of the eyes after 9 o clock onwards at night. You might get very redfaced aswell, im very bad now but i was always kind of redfaced anyway. Its not the kind of miracle drug that some people make it out to be, 3 1/2 months in and my face is only moderately better but im going to hang in there all the same and just put up with the drawbacks because like you this is my last chance to get rid of acne
May 11th, 2009 at 21:16:01
Hi, I’m 30 and had a baby in Dec ‘08. I then got a severe case of acne about 2 weeks after my baby was born. It went untreated for another 4 weeks and got so bad I was sent to A&E by my GP. My face, neck and chest were covered in large acne boils. I was put on steroids straight away to reduce the swelling,t hen started on roAccutane about 4 weeks later. I didn’t really notice any side effects except for dry lips but I’m now on 70mg daily for the last week and my skin is in bits. Really itchy and sore, the skin on the end of my nose seems to be peeling off and there loads of dry skin around my lips that splits and bleeds every now and again. Is this due to the higher dose, I had to start on a very small dose of 20mg because my acne was so reactive.
May 11th, 2009 at 21:18:50
I should add that roAccutane has done wonders for the acne, which has all but cleared up, I’ve been left with severe scarring on my chest and back, whcih the derm doesn’t think will heal the best but my neck and face can be dealth with using make-up. I never ever even suffered with spots as a teenager before this happened to me.
May 11th, 2009 at 23:20:20
Your dose is based on your body weight. There is a leaflet that comes with the tabs that lists the side effect. Like you I have very bad scarring on my chest. Find out if you have keloid scars. Your derm is right. The scars can be treated by steroid shots but it is not certain of improvement.
May 23rd, 2009 at 14:03:15
I have been on roaccutane for just about 2 months now! Im 17 and on a dose of 10mg/day, which sounds very low compared to every1 else! As my skin was really bad as i had very big lumps that lasted weeks!:( Its working well, dont get any spots any more! But i have a lot of scarring!
The only side affects are dry lips and backpain! But it has done my confidece wonders as before i would never let any1 take photos of me! I have tried everything before this and nothing made the slightest difference! So i thing if your acne if affecting the way u live your life! You shud really consider roaccutane! 
August 2nd, 2009 at 03:46:52
i am 16 and i have been on roaccutane for 4 weeks now. ive really started to see a difference in both my skin and my confidence. the only real side effects i had up to now were dry lips, skin and nose, and the occasional sore joints
but last night it seemed to change
i was in the shower and my nose started excessively bleeding for the first time, i got out and the flow eventually stopped
i then brushed my teeth and spat out blood, looking at my mouth i realised that my gums were bleeding, something i hadnt experienced before,
some time later i went to the toilet, and the tip of my penis was bleeding, again this was a brand new side affect
that night i went to bed and for about five minutes i couldnt get the thought of hanging myself out of my head, not like i wanted to go do it, but just what it would be like, and what it would cause, i subconsiously knew that it was the roaccutane causing the thought but like it wouldnt go away.
ive decided to stop taking the drug now
i really did notice some difference and the dry skin was a small price to pay for clear skin
but when it started affecting other parts of my body and mind, it simply wasnt worth the risk, especially since im in year 12 and need to be focussing on my studies
i would definately recommed trying roaccutane, but if any serious side affects occur you should discontinue treatment
August 4th, 2009 at 15:47:07
I finished up on roaccutane last week and the effects of it have been wonderful. I haven’t had any acne in at least 2 months. I did kinda suffer form a low period alright about 2 months ago but I got over it. I couldn’t say it was the roaccutane for definite, there were a number of uncertaintities in my life at the time but these have since been resolved and i fell fine now. The main side effects I had were related to sensitive skin, very dry with cracking and I got sunburnt a few times when everyone else would have just felt it a bit hot outside. Other than this I would recommend roaccutane for severe reactive acne which is what I had, but for anyone else the thing is to weigh up the effect and pain that the acne is having on your life and whether the side affects are worth it for the duration of your treament. I’m very happy with the end result.
August 5th, 2009 at 12:19:29
I’m nearly through to four months now and I think this stuff is the best. I can really notice the difference in my skin (face, shoulders and back). The worst side-effect for me has been my dry lips. They’ve gotten worse since my dose had been doubled and are cracked on the side of my mouth which is a pain. Vaseline can only do so much until my face is covered in it. Also since my dose was doubled, I’ve started getting “crusty nose”. Mucus dries up and feel like scabs. It’s a tiny bit sore sometimes but nothing massive.
@Jasper: That stuff sounds serious. Before Roaccutane, I was always prone to nosebleeds so I’m not sure what factors cause the ones I have now. I was in Thailand for holiday there last month and I regularly had nosebleeds when I was in air-conditioning. I randomly got a nosebleed while in a car with the air blowing into my face. Around three or four times I woke up in the middle of the night because my nose was bleeding. Regarding the suicidal thoughts, I don’t really have any similar experiences but definitely a case of better safe than sorry.
September 12th, 2009 at 20:51:03
Hello
My girlfriend has just started using roaccutane and she is obsessed with reading these comments over current roaccutane users/side – effects. she is now really depressed reading all of these stories – is this also a side – effect, to be obssesd and depressed almost before you start treatment?
sincerely
raoul
p.s i still haven’t seen any improvement in her acne; but i still love her anyway
September 13th, 2009 at 17:30:33
I’m nearly five months through my treatment now and I’ve definitely noticed an improvement, Raoul. It took about 3-5 weeks before I noticed anything, I think.
Roaccutane has a million and one way side-effects, most of which are rare, but I think depression was definitely listed somewhere. I’d say your girlfriend is just anxious to rid herself of her acne like everyone else on the medicine.
October 1st, 2009 at 14:01:09
If you are considering starting Roaccutane, please dont be put off by the reports of side effects.
Ask youself – are prepared to put up with a few months of inconvenience to give this drug (and the possible long term improvements)a shot?
The blogs about side effects are scary,but blogs ae soemtimes helpful when feeling down and some postings reflect that.
Look after your body (v.little alcohol, so you dont stress your liver!)and be self aware enough to know if you are getting depressed or cant cope with someting and just reduce the dosage.
After 20 years, I am happy to be taking the chance that I could be free of skin problems soon. Who cares that I am going through a phase of being very tired this week, and carry lip balm and a bottle of water everywhere! (Im at 2 months.)
BTW- I reccomend Decleor Baume de Nuit Night Balm on the lips now and again- it is v.expensive, but its helped my dry lips alot).
October 21st, 2009 at 19:29:37
hi to u all im in my 5 th week the 1st mounth i was on 40mg and really started to see a diffrence in about week 3. iv only got mild acne but i wud say my spots are coming out like zits its horrible but as much as i want to squeeze them i cant cus that will cause scarring so if anyone else has the same dont do it cus u will scare there worse now im on 70mg but i know it has to get worse before it gets better and like everyone else im having dry lips but not to bad as i use jus lip balm menthol i think it works 4 me and moisturise every night and morning i use vasaline body lotion for dry to very dry skin it really does work because befor i started roac i had eczema on the hands and my nails came of but since being on roac my hands have cleard up and the vasaline really does work a treat any one out there that doesnt know wat moisturiser to use try vasaline. its good that this forum is here knowing eveyone is goin thru same thing specially wen uv got mates that dont suffer with acne they dont know wat ur goin thru i hope people keep writing because i love hearin about the good outcums were there acne free.
November 21st, 2009 at 22:02:18
Hi I have just found this site, I am 34 years old and have suffered with acne most of my life. I was amazed when the hospital provided me with a drug that I was advised would possibly cease my acne completely.
Visiting the hospital every month to provide negative pregnancy tests is a pain and for the first month I was ok then when I was increased to two tablets a day (40mg) I became very depressed. I was crying and became very bad tempered. It is frightening to read that people have committed suicide however even being a single parent with two children nothing seemed to pull me up. I immediately stopped taking them and advised the hospital. Although I have been advised I will have to be on the tablets a year due to the small quantity I can only say its been well worth it (so far). My skin is totally clear and I only get the odd spot that pops up when I forget to take a tablet.
I went to a beauty evening at my local clinic as I have had juvederm fillers and botox without problems. I was advised by them that I must ensure I wear an SPF everyday whilst on roc. Roc exposes your skin to UVA and UVB rays, that can cause brown spots later in life.
The hospital have advised that I must avoid night creams with vitamin A in and I was also advised to stop taking a lot of the health enhancement tablets. Evening Primrose oil is ok but Fish Oil and Cod liver Oil should be left alone to prevent an overdose of Vitamin A which is what happened to me.
The only problem I have noticed lately is really bad pains in my joints. Especially my hips and knees. I wondered if this has been because of the reduction in cod liver oil or because of the roc! I would be interested to hear from other people who have had similar symptoms. I don’t know if it is because the roc is absorbing the moisture from the joints?
Please add your comments, but heres to 12 months down the line when I have completed the course!
November 23rd, 2009 at 14:31:21
I just finished my seven-month stint. I’ve tried a few good treatments but this has been by far the best one. The worst I got was chapped lips and just generally dry skin on my face. It was well worth it for me though.
I think I still have another month before I can start drinking though.
November 23rd, 2009 at 15:08:52
Why can you not drink? I never had to stop when I was on it???
November 23rd, 2009 at 15:11:41
Hi Nat. Been a couple of years now since I was on it but your description of the aching joints brought it all back to me. I’m the same age as you but I used to feel 70 years old in the morning haha. Best of luck for the next 12 months
November 23rd, 2009 at 15:20:32
@Paddy: I was advised by my dermatologist to steer clear of alcohol for the duration of my Roaccutane course as the drug itself is quite hard on the liver.
November 24th, 2009 at 14:56:04
Yeah, the specialist told me to avoid alcohol as Roaccutane increases risk of liver failure or something like that, so just best not to chance it.
November 25th, 2009 at 15:52:18
Really? Ok thats really scary coz mine never mentioned it. Well no bad effects anyway so I guess ignorance is bliss:o|
December 9th, 2009 at 03:11:53
Hey all, while doing my seven months treatment, I took daily pictures. I made a video of it and uploaded it to YouTube if anyone is interested, particularly people contemplating whether to go on Roaccutane.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Go6O6WMI-W0
December 16th, 2009 at 19:21:01
hi all well i got 2 months left i can see a big diff. these last 2 months iv gone up to 80mg iv still got few spots still, my derm tells me im inpationt hahaha but like some of you my back is aching and shoulders i feel so old in the mornings trying to get out of bed my lips are dry nuthink bad thou i vasaline them about 15 times a day so i surpose they dont get chance to lol my hands have started to get dry lookin like exczma but i can cope with it all because i can see roac working so ill go through this jus to be acne free at the end.
January 19th, 2010 at 02:17:14
hey all,
i am 20, im on 20mls 2 tablets a day so 40 altogether weigh 60kg. il keep posted
i have just started about 3 weeks ago…
i have noticed the dry skin all over and dry lips, i have a very dry scalp so there for bad dandruff, my hair seams dryer.. and i think i have sore heels… thats all so far but apart from that i feal normal…. i hope this works for me because i have also tryed everything.. due for a cheak up in a few weeks….