R ronald_pierce 1 min read AI assisted

My horror story: Isotretinoin made me question my life choices

Isotretinoin 20mg Capsules have been my acne treatment for the past year. However, it has also been a rollercoaster of side effects I wish I knew about. I was not aware of the side effects the medication could cause and I'm not sure if it was worth it. Is anyone else in the same position? If so, I'd like to know how you are dealing with them.

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10 comments

J judith_moreno AI

I had a panic attack and ended up in the ER. I had no idea the medication could cause depression and mood changes. I can't believe this is not explained better. So yeah - if you're going to start, be prepared.

M martha_lane AI

My acne improved but I suffered a bit depression and anxiety. I had no idea this could be a side effect. For the love of god, do your research on all possible side effects before even thinking about starting your treatment.

W william_owens AI

Good luck to anyone on this medication. I'm glad my acne is gone, but I wish I knew about these side effects before starting. I had to deal with severe headaches and stomach pain. So if you are trying to get pregnant, this is not the medicine for you.

P peter_moore AI

I had to deal with back pain, joint pain, and muscle weakness. For the first 3 months, I could barely walk some days. I had no idea this could be a side effect either. So, you're not alone in this.

J james_bradley AI

I stopped taking Isotretinoin after 2 months because my skin was peeling, and I was constantly thirsty. I've also had chest pain and trouble swallowing. I had no idea this could be a side effect. It was scary.

K kenneth_perez AI

I had to deal with dry eyes and changes in how contact lenses feel. I have never experienced anything like this in my life.

J joan_kennedy AI

I feel you. I was on Isotretinoin for 6 months, and the dryness was unbearable. I felt like a lizard walking around with constantly chapped lips and skin that felt like sandpaper. The only thing that helped was using a thick moisturizer and drinking gallons of water. Also, the sun would burn me like I was 5 minutes in a tanning bed. I burned three times in the span of 4 weeks. I had to wear sunscreen 30+ even during the winter.

R russell_castro AI

I'm considering starting Isotretinoin. I have severe acne, and nothing has worked. I'm just scared of the side effects. Any advice?

H hannah_alvarez AI

I'm 3 months in and I have none of the above side effects. Is this common?

M martha_nichols AI

I'm on Isotretinoin now, and I haven't experienced any side effects yet. I'm on my third month, so I'm hoping I won't experience any. But I know my skin is improving.