How can I get started on Accutane?

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Overview

Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is a prescription medication that healthcare professionals use to treat severe acne when other treatments haven’t worked.

While Accutane is no longer sold in the United States, it is still available in a generic version called isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is available under various other brand names, such as:

• Absorica
• Amnesteem
• Zenatane
• Claravis
• Myorisan

Accutane is not available over the counter (OTC). You will need a prescription from a healthcare professional to get it.

How do I get an Accutane prescription?

While you won’t be able to get an Accutane prescription in the United States, the information below still applies if you’re trying to get a prescription for the generic version or another brand-name drug with the same active ingredient.

To get a prescription, you’ll need to consult a healthcare professional, typically a dermatologist, who can prescribe this medication. 

The process for getting a prescription typically involves several steps:

• Evaluate your acne: To be a candidate for Accutane, your acne must be considered severe and must not have shown improvement with other treatments. Severe acne often consists of deep, painful cysts or scarring. A dermatologist will assess your acne’s severity to decide whether Accutane is right for you.
• Referral to a specialist: Sometimes, your primary care doctor may refer you to a dermatologist for an Accutane evaluation. A referral might be necessary, especially if required by your insurance provider.
• Health evaluation: A dermatologist will review your overall health before prescribing Accutane. This may involve a physical exam, blood tests, and a review of any medications you may be taking to ensure Accutane is safe.
• Know the risks and benefits: Accutane can cause side effects, such as dry skin, joint pain, and changes in mood. Your doctor will explain these risks and benefits to help you make an informed decision before starting Accutane treatment.
• Enrollment in the iPLEDGE program: In the United States, prescriptions for drugs with the same active ingredient as Accutane (isotretinoin) require enrollment in the iPLEDGE program. This FDA-mandated program helps prevent pregnancy during treatment due to the drug’s risk of causing serious birth defects.
• Prescription and monitoring: If you meet all the criteria and decide to proceed, a dermatologist may prescribe Accutane or another brand-name or generic equivalent. While taking it, you’ll need monthly follow-ups with your dermatologist to monitor your progress and manage any side effects.

What should I expect when taking Accutane?

Taking Accutane involves following strict steps to stay safe and make the treatment effective.

Before getting started on Accutane, you must join the iPLEDGE program. This program is designed to help prevent pregnancy during treatment. This is because Accutane can cause serious birth defects. 

According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), every person prescribed Accutane or another brand-name or generic equivalent must enroll in the iPLEDGE program.

Here’s what the program requires:

• Monthly pregnancy tests: If you’re able to become pregnant, you’ll need to take a pregnancy test before starting Accutane and every month during treatment.
• Blood tests: These tests check your liver health and cholesterol levels, as Accutane can affect them. Blood tests are typically done every month.
• Questionnaires: You’ll answer questions to confirm that you understand Accutane’s risks and to verify you’re using two forms of birth control if applicable.

While taking Accutane, you’ll have follow-ups with your dermatologist every 30 days. During these visits, they’ll check your progress, help you manage any side effects, and adjust your dosage if necessary.

To take Accutane safely:

• Take the medication exactly as prescribed, usually with food, in two divided doses daily for 15 to 20 weeks.
• Avoid waxing and laser treatments while you’re taking Accutane. And for 6 months after to avoid skin irritation and scarring.
• Apply sunscreen daily to protect your skin because Accutane increases your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight.

Treatment typically lasts about 4 to 5 months, with regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and ensure the treatment is effective and safe.

Can I get an Accutane prescription online?

Yes, you can get a prescription for Accutane or another brand name or generic equivalent online, but a few steps are involved.

Telehealth services can connect you with a licensed dermatologist who will review your acne, discuss whether Accutane is right for you, and prescribe it if needed.

Accutane requires you to enroll in the iPledge program to ensure safe use. Because of this, you’ll need to set up regular lab tests and follow-ups every 30 days, which can often be scheduled through virtual care.

For more acne care options, visit the OP Online Care page for acne.

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Summary

Getting started on Accutane involves talking to a dermatologist, understanding the risks, and registering for the iPLEDGE program.

During treatment, regular blood tests and follow-ups will be reuqired to help you stay safe. While you can start with an online consultation, some steps like lab tests must be done in person.

If severe acne is affecting your confidence or health, Accutane might be worth considering. Consider speaking with a dermatologist to see if it’s the right option for you.