Does it really work?
This is the most common question about Accutane \ Roaccutane. My answer has to be: Yes. To my best knowledge, judging from my own experience and reading other people's experiences, this medicine does indeed take care of the acne problem, eventually. You should take under consideration that it is possible, and as far as I know, in about 10% of the cases, a secound course of the medicine is required. Sometimes, even a third one is in order.
I know that for many people suffering from acne Accutane \ Roaccutane seems like a magical drug. Though it does its job, you shouldn't rush into taking it. You should first be completely aware of what you're getting yourself in to. You should weight the pros and cons, learn more about the medicine and have a long talk with a dermatologist before deciding whether to take it or not. Personally, I also recommend using Accutane \ Roaccutane as a last resort, and do try everything else before going on it (The Leaflet itself says Roaccutane is meant "For severe cystic acne that does not respond to other treatments"). Speaking of which, I also recommend reading the Leaflet carefully before making a decision (you can do so by clicking here).

Are there any side effects? If so, what are they and how common they are?
There are quite a few side effects. In the Side Effects section of this site you could find a list of about 30 side effects of this medicine, some more common than others. The more common side effects are the lighter ones, chapped lips for example. On the other hand, the less common side effects are the graver ones, depression or damage to the liver to name two. For more information about the side effects please visit the mentioned section.

When does it begin to affect?
It takes about two weeks before it starts to affect. The first sign that it starts working is getting dry chapped lips (in every 9 out of 10 cases). This is the moment you begin your journey with Accutane \ Roaccutane, I can only wish you have a pleasant one.

How long did it take for your acne to get clear?
To my best recollection, It took about 4 months for my face to get clear and another two months from my upper back, shoulders, chest and hips.

When does it stop affecting?
This medicine gets out of your system in about one month after you stop taking it. Personally, I think it took me about a week or two longer than that.

What was your dosage?
I took three 20mg capsules everyday - one in the morning and two in the evening. For people just starting their Accutane \ Roaccutane treatment, I recommend starting up with a low dosage, and switching to a higher one after about four to six weeks. This way your body can adjust to the medicine and the treatment will pass more easily and productively.

I am a bit concerned about the facial redenss. Just how red does it get?
Pretty red. Your whole face will be red except for white circles around your eyes and maybe your forehead. Your face will look like a tomato and many people will think you've been skiing, sun tanning or are embarrassed. They will laugh. It is all very unpleasant, not to mention unattractive. For me, it was red ALL the time, and especially red when I was out in the sun, even for just a few minutes.

How was your general health before Accutane treatment?
I was a healthy teenager before the treatment, except for light asthma I had as a child. I am not that healthy now. I've suffered from insomnia for over than 9 months, which, alongside with the results of the treatment, made me one depressed and suicidal teenager. I've also been suffering from muscle and joint pains. All this has completely warned me out, and I am not capable of doing anything that requires more effort than sitting (so my general fitness is down and I'm putting up weight). I have a constant headache too.

What is the true effect on your mind if any? Are u still a functionng human? Does it screw up your school grades?
Accutane \ Roaccutane affects different people in different ways. It can have a good effect or a bad one. You can learn more by reading some of the personal stories.

How much does it cost?
Accutane \ Roaccutane is a pretty expensive drug. How much it'll cost you depends on the country in which you live and what kind of health insurance you have. It also depends, of course, on your dosage and how long you take it. Here it costs about US $300 a month and my insurance covers half of it. I took it for about 6 months.

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