Am I a candidate for Accutane?

radioguy21 · 01-06-2005, 11:50 PM

Hi,
I've been using Differin for over a year now (after trying Tazorac for about 5 months, which I thought irritated my skin too much) along with Duac for 6 months and Septra DS to use 'as needed for acne flares.' Thankfully, my skin looks better than it had about 1.5 years ago, but I'm developing cysts on my cheeks. I had to get one injected this November because it was so huge and red. Does anyone know if I would make a good candidate for Accutane? My brother went on it about 6 years ago and had great results. My father had bad cystic acne through his 20's, and I don't want to go through that. For some reason, my Differin seems to have "stopped working" (if that makes sense), and I was wondering if anyone thinks I should ask my derm about going on Accutane to prevent major future problems.

Thanks so much for your help!

radioguy21 · 01-31-2005, 01:50 AM

bump...
any thoughts?

Thanks!

skimom · 01-31-2005, 01:15 PM

That's up to your derm. If you push for it, he may say yes. He also may suggest that you try oral antibiotics for more than just "flares" if that doesn't seem to be working for you anymore. My daughter took Bactrim DS every day for 1 1/2 years before it stopped working and she stayed very clear. She also had regular chemical peels. Antibiotics don't cure but may get you to the point where you outgrow your acne.