Q My acne is severe and I was advised to take isotretinoin (the Roaccutane class), but I heard the side effects are frightening. Do I really have to take it?
A Isotretinoin is powerfully effective for severe nodular and cystic acne, but it can cause fetal malformations during pregnancy, so strict contraception is essential for women of childbearing age, and effects such as depression have also been reported. Whether to take it must always be discussed with the prescribing physician.
Detailed Answer
Isotretinoin strongly suppresses sebum and is highly effective for severe acne, but taking it during pregnancy can cause serious fetal malformations, so strict contraception before and after is absolutely necessary for women of childbearing age. In addition, side effects such as dry lips and skin, changes in liver values, and depression in some people have been reported, so it must be taken under the management of the prescribing physician with regular testing.
Korean Medicine Clinic Perspective
For those who find the medication hard to tolerate or are worried about side effects, or whose acne keeps recurring after finishing the course, Dongjedang recommends Korean medicine treatment that empties the body's heat-toxins and supports skin regeneration. However, if very severe nodules or cysts are spreading into scars, it is safer not to delay appropriate conventional treatment and to discuss whether to combine the two.
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