I have severe SEVERE acne, and I am elgible for a drug called accutane.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
I need really good advice.
I need really good advice.
yeah, my sister did that.
It didnt work for her, but I will bring it up. *jotted down*
It didnt work for her, but I will bring it up. *jotted down*
I need really good advice.
Another bad side effect from Accutane is bad mood swings. My husband took it in highschool. He said it really affected his attitude. Great for football, but bad for getting a girl. 
Have you tried using tanning beds. I've heard this will help with clearing up acne. Also check into the stuff advertised on television. I think it's called Proactive.
Have you tried using tanning beds. I've heard this will help with clearing up acne. Also check into the stuff advertised on television. I think it's called Proactive.
"Girls are crazy! I'm not ever getting married, I can make my own sandwiches!"
my son
my son
I need really good advice.
Jimmeh wrote: I have severe SEVERE acne, and I am elgible for a drug called accutane.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Being told your baby will be born deformed is infinately worse that being sterile.
Acne will go in the next few years - the other will haunt you for life whichever way you handle it.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Being told your baby will be born deformed is infinately worse that being sterile.
Acne will go in the next few years - the other will haunt you for life whichever way you handle it.
I need really good advice.
Bryn Mawr wrote: Being told your baby will be born deformed is infinately worse that being sterile.
Acne will go in the next few years - the other will haunt you for life whichever way you handle it.
yes, but you see. its very painfull. and I will have it for my whole life, everyone in my family has. My grandma, aged 65 still has it, so does my mother age 42 and my sister, 19, my uncle 41 and so on.
I meant to say: I would find a way to become sterile if it was 100% sure I would have defected babies.
Acne will go in the next few years - the other will haunt you for life whichever way you handle it.
yes, but you see. its very painfull. and I will have it for my whole life, everyone in my family has. My grandma, aged 65 still has it, so does my mother age 42 and my sister, 19, my uncle 41 and so on.
I meant to say: I would find a way to become sterile if it was 100% sure I would have defected babies.
I need really good advice.
Sheryl wrote: Another bad side effect from Accutane is bad mood swings. My husband took it in highschool. He said it really affected his attitude. Great for football, but bad for getting a girl.
Have you tried using tanning beds. I've heard this will help with clearing up acne. Also check into the stuff advertised on television. I think it's called Proactive.
Sunlight works for a month, Uv lights etc. and it comes back.
proactive doesnt work either, tried that for 6 months. =/ thanks for trying though. ^^;
Have you tried using tanning beds. I've heard this will help with clearing up acne. Also check into the stuff advertised on television. I think it's called Proactive.
Sunlight works for a month, Uv lights etc. and it comes back.
proactive doesnt work either, tried that for 6 months. =/ thanks for trying though. ^^;
I need really good advice.
SnoozeControl wrote: Yor poor guy, there must be something out there that'll help. Have you considered getting a second opinion from another doctor. Check with a dermatologist, if you can afford it. I think I'd avoid Accutane if the side effects are really that severe.
Good luck and let us know how things go for you.
Yes, I have about four, and its pretty much the last thing to do. They all said the same thing. They do blood tests and match it specifically to me so the chances are lowered but still is risky.
Good luck and let us know how things go for you.
Yes, I have about four, and its pretty much the last thing to do. They all said the same thing. They do blood tests and match it specifically to me so the chances are lowered but still is risky.
I need really good advice.
I'm sorry you've got this condition....my daughter has something similar (red-heads sometimes get cystic acne and it's terrible.) How many specialists have you seen? What do they say?
Sadly, in the long run, you're the one who must make the decision...but be sure you make an informed one.
(((BIG HUGS))))
Sadly, in the long run, you're the one who must make the decision...but be sure you make an informed one.
(((BIG HUGS))))
My candle's burning at both ends, it will not last the night. But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends--It gives a lovely light!--Edna St. Vincent Millay
I need really good advice.
Lulu2 wrote: I'm sorry you've got this condition....my daughter has something similar (red-heads sometimes get cystic acne and it's terrible.) How many specialists have you seen? What do they say?
Sadly, in the long run, you're the one who must make the decision...but be sure you make an informed one.
(((BIG HUGS))))
yes, I have a combination of cystic and scattered acne. I mean, its not that horrible I always wanted to help children by adopting. but as I said, accidents happen.
Sadly, in the long run, you're the one who must make the decision...but be sure you make an informed one.
(((BIG HUGS))))
yes, I have a combination of cystic and scattered acne. I mean, its not that horrible I always wanted to help children by adopting. but as I said, accidents happen.
I need really good advice.
The reason I'm suggesting speaking with other specialists is that you shouldn't have to balance clear skin with future fertility. There MUST be another option!
My candle's burning at both ends, it will not last the night. But ah, my foes, and oh, my friends--It gives a lovely light!--Edna St. Vincent Millay
I need really good advice.
Lulu2 wrote: The reason I'm suggesting speaking with other specialists is that you shouldn't have to balance clear skin with future fertility. There MUST be another option!
thats what I am hoping or maybe a diluted accutane out there for younger patients.
I think my dermatoligst said something where there is a diluted one that works in small doses.
thats what I am hoping or maybe a diluted accutane out there for younger patients.
I think my dermatoligst said something where there is a diluted one that works in small doses.
I need really good advice.
This is gonna sound strange, but avoid drinking to much orange juice. It brings on more outbreaks. Sorry that proactive didn't work.
Here's some sites I found.
http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/treatmnt.html
http://www.acne.org/
Also have your mom check with an Avon represenative about getting the 2 step chemical peel. It has 10% glycolic acid, which helps dry out the oil.
Here's some sites I found.
http://www.skincarephysicians.com/acnenet/treatmnt.html
http://www.acne.org/
Also have your mom check with an Avon represenative about getting the 2 step chemical peel. It has 10% glycolic acid, which helps dry out the oil.
"Girls are crazy! I'm not ever getting married, I can make my own sandwiches!"
my son
my son
-
RedGlitter
- Posts: 15777
- Joined: Thu Dec 22, 2005 3:51 am
I need really good advice.
Hi Jimmeh,
Back in the 80s my cousin used Accutane. His acne was severe and caused him physical pain as well as embarrassment. It worked in clearing up his problem. He has a five year old daughter now and she is healthy. I would keep in mind that doctors tend to overstate percentages because they don't want you coming back at them if something goes wrong so they cover their butt this way. If you've tried everything else and as you say it's a hereditary problem and isn't likely to go away like regular acne, then I'd look into it.
Back in the 80s my cousin used Accutane. His acne was severe and caused him physical pain as well as embarrassment. It worked in clearing up his problem. He has a five year old daughter now and she is healthy. I would keep in mind that doctors tend to overstate percentages because they don't want you coming back at them if something goes wrong so they cover their butt this way. If you've tried everything else and as you say it's a hereditary problem and isn't likely to go away like regular acne, then I'd look into it.
I need really good advice.
hello, this is Sheryl's husband to give you a little firsthand advice.
use the accutane! as long as you do not plan on getting anyone pregnant while using the stuff all is good. the birth defect problems are only while you are on it and while it is in your system. the only downfall was the effect on my moods. I am pretty easygoing and I could get pretty mean sometimes, but the positives greatly outweighed the negatives. I have two beautiful kids and I in good conscience would advise you if your doctor says it is o.k. for you, because you have to have blood tests done for your liver enzymes, to go for it. hope this helps.
use the accutane! as long as you do not plan on getting anyone pregnant while using the stuff all is good. the birth defect problems are only while you are on it and while it is in your system. the only downfall was the effect on my moods. I am pretty easygoing and I could get pretty mean sometimes, but the positives greatly outweighed the negatives. I have two beautiful kids and I in good conscience would advise you if your doctor says it is o.k. for you, because you have to have blood tests done for your liver enzymes, to go for it. hope this helps.
"Girls are crazy! I'm not ever getting married, I can make my own sandwiches!"
my son
my son
-
Bill Sikes
- Posts: 5515
- Joined: Fri Aug 20, 2004 2:21 am
I need really good advice.
Jimmeh wrote: I have severe SEVERE acne, and I am elgible for a drug called accutane.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Brief research suggests:
It will not "completely destroy all oil glands on the face", but it will considerably
reduce their function for a long time.
I'm not sure where your figure of 60% chance of becoming sterile comes from. I
can't easily find a reference to it.
The side-effect of causing deformity in children seems to be associated with use
of the drug *when pregnant*.
Repeat treatments are generally not recommended.
There are other side-effects that may occur.
So, I'd advise a) that you talk carefully to your doctor about your fears; b) perhaps
you should look at some of the information available on-line (*and* refer to it
when talking to the quack). When you take the stuff, you should consult your
doctor about your on-going situation.
From a brief look into this, I would probably take the stuff, if your acne is bad.
FYI:
http://www.tiscali.co.uk/lifestyle/heal ... 04413.html
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Brief research suggests:
It will not "completely destroy all oil glands on the face", but it will considerably
reduce their function for a long time.
I'm not sure where your figure of 60% chance of becoming sterile comes from. I
can't easily find a reference to it.
The side-effect of causing deformity in children seems to be associated with use
of the drug *when pregnant*.
Repeat treatments are generally not recommended.
There are other side-effects that may occur.
So, I'd advise a) that you talk carefully to your doctor about your fears; b) perhaps
you should look at some of the information available on-line (*and* refer to it
when talking to the quack). When you take the stuff, you should consult your
doctor about your on-going situation.
From a brief look into this, I would probably take the stuff, if your acne is bad.
FYI:
http://www.tiscali.co.uk/lifestyle/heal ... 04413.html
-
DesignerGal
- Posts: 2554
- Joined: Tue Aug 30, 2005 11:20 am
I need really good advice.
I would have to go up on the "Don't do it" side of the tote board.
We already know it is a pretty toxic drug but what I really worry about
is the stuff we don't know about it that could happen at some point
down the road.
Something to think about: I am a regular blood donor, and one of the
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
That means even if you just took it for a little while, you still would
never be able to give blood again. (At my bank) You may not care
about ever giving blood, but I think it says a lot as to how toxic they
really think it is.
We already know it is a pretty toxic drug but what I really worry about
is the stuff we don't know about it that could happen at some point
down the road.
Something to think about: I am a regular blood donor, and one of the
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
That means even if you just took it for a little while, you still would
never be able to give blood again. (At my bank) You may not care
about ever giving blood, but I think it says a lot as to how toxic they
really think it is.
-
DesignerGal
- Posts: 2554
- Joined: Tue Aug 30, 2005 11:20 am
I need really good advice.
valerie wrote: I would have to go up on the "Don't do it" side of the tote board.
We already know it is a pretty toxic drug but what I really worry about
is the stuff we don't know about it that could happen at some point
down the road.
Something to think about: I am a regular blood donor, and one of the
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
That means even if you just took it for a little while, you still would
never be able to give blood again. (At my bank) You may not care
about ever giving blood, but I think it says a lot as to how toxic they
really think it is.
Val, it may not necessarily be toxic to the person taking it. It might have effects on unborn fetuses or some other side affects for some one who cant take Accutane that might need a blood transfusion. For example, my husband takes Propecia (for male baldness) and he cant ever give blood because they dont know how it would effect a male fetus if a pregnant woman needed a blood transfusion. It says right on the label that pregnant women should not even handle these pills.
We already know it is a pretty toxic drug but what I really worry about
is the stuff we don't know about it that could happen at some point
down the road.
Something to think about: I am a regular blood donor, and one of the
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
That means even if you just took it for a little while, you still would
never be able to give blood again. (At my bank) You may not care
about ever giving blood, but I think it says a lot as to how toxic they
really think it is.
Val, it may not necessarily be toxic to the person taking it. It might have effects on unborn fetuses or some other side affects for some one who cant take Accutane that might need a blood transfusion. For example, my husband takes Propecia (for male baldness) and he cant ever give blood because they dont know how it would effect a male fetus if a pregnant woman needed a blood transfusion. It says right on the label that pregnant women should not even handle these pills.
HBIC
I need really good advice.
Oh, I realize that DG, I'm going at it more from the angle of what
it does to anything in the human body... like your kidneys, your heart,
your liver, anything since the blood goes through all parts.
It's just pretty scary to contemplate, for me, anyway. Think of how
many things they have thought were safe until years later. (Of course,
the opposite is true!!)
:-6
it does to anything in the human body... like your kidneys, your heart,
your liver, anything since the blood goes through all parts.
It's just pretty scary to contemplate, for me, anyway. Think of how
many things they have thought were safe until years later. (Of course,
the opposite is true!!)
:-6
-
Bill Sikes
- Posts: 5515
- Joined: Fri Aug 20, 2004 2:21 am
I need really good advice.
valerie wrote: I am a regular blood donor, and and one of the
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
Perhaps the rules are different where you are; from this reference:
http://www.tiscali.co.uk/lifestyle/heal ... 02288.html
o - People taking this medicine must not donate blood during treatment, and
for at least four weeks after stopping treatment. This is due to the potential
risk of the medicine to an unborn child if the blood transfusion was received
by a pregnant woman.
Similar from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isotretinoin
"Patients receiving isotretinoin therapy are not permitted to donate blood for at least one month after discontinuation of isotretinoin therapy"
RARE few drugs that is a PERMANENT deferral is Accutane. Lifetime.
Perhaps the rules are different where you are; from this reference:
http://www.tiscali.co.uk/lifestyle/heal ... 02288.html
o - People taking this medicine must not donate blood during treatment, and
for at least four weeks after stopping treatment. This is due to the potential
risk of the medicine to an unborn child if the blood transfusion was received
by a pregnant woman.
Similar from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isotretinoin
"Patients receiving isotretinoin therapy are not permitted to donate blood for at least one month after discontinuation of isotretinoin therapy"
I need really good advice.
That's why I put THIS in my post:
(At my bank)
Guess I should have changed letter color and put it in caps or something.
(At my bank)
Guess I should have changed letter color and put it in caps or something.
I need really good advice.
I think the blood regulations vary from state to state. Used to be you couldn't donate if you'd recieved any tattoos.
"Girls are crazy! I'm not ever getting married, I can make my own sandwiches!"
my son
my son
-
Bill Sikes
- Posts: 5515
- Joined: Fri Aug 20, 2004 2:21 am
I need really good advice.
valerie wrote: That's why I put THIS in my post:
(At my bank)
Guess I should have changed letter color and put it in caps or something.
Ah! I missed that, as it was a sentence or so late! Thanks for explaining.
(At my bank)
Guess I should have changed letter color and put it in caps or something.
Ah! I missed that, as it was a sentence or so late! Thanks for explaining.
I need really good advice.
Bill Sikes wrote: Ah! I missed that, as it was a sentence or so late! Thanks for explaining.
Remind me to send all my posts through you from now on so you
can advise me on composition.:rolleyes:
Remind me to send all my posts through you from now on so you
can advise me on composition.:rolleyes:
-
Bill Sikes
- Posts: 5515
- Joined: Fri Aug 20, 2004 2:21 am
I need really good advice.
valerie wrote: Remind me to send all my posts through you from now on so you
can advise me on composition.
OK. You will have to send me some reading-glasses as well, though.
can advise me on composition.
OK. You will have to send me some reading-glasses as well, though.
I need really good advice.
Jimmeh, i note from your bio that you are male,
i just checked out the drug and it only mentions birth defects etc if you are female and become pregnant whilst taking the medication.
Looking at the possible side affects i'd certainly think more than twice before taking it!
http://www.fda.gov/CDER/drug/infopage/a ... nguide.htm
i just checked out the drug and it only mentions birth defects etc if you are female and become pregnant whilst taking the medication.
Looking at the possible side affects i'd certainly think more than twice before taking it!
http://www.fda.gov/CDER/drug/infopage/a ... nguide.htm
I need really good advice.
Bill Sikes wrote: OK. You will have to send me some reading-glasses as well, though.
:yh_rotfl
;)
:yh_rotfl
;)
I need really good advice.
Jimmeh wrote: I have severe SEVERE acne, and I am elgible for a drug called accutane.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Oh! I used to use Acutain under a doctor's care. IT was great. I used to have acne since I was like in 7th grade. It is such an awful thing. What happens is that first your face will be really really red for a few weeks until the top few layers of thin skin are gone. And then your face will clear up. But you have to continue using it.
I used to also work in a doctor's office and he'd get Acutain samples. It was great getting it for free.
For all who are not familuar with the drug, its completely destroys all oil glands on the face, so its not as oily and not acne-prone.
With the miracles of getting rid of acne, it comes with a cost. I have about a 60% chance of becoming sterile, and at 15 this is a hard decsion. Well actually, I wont be sterile, but have a chance of having deformed children. This is the same as being sterile to me, because I dont want to bring a life in this world with such a high disadvantage such as being born without limbs. I do really want to get rid of this problem, but do you think it wise to just go ahead and do it?
Its so confusing and I have tried EVERYTHING ELSE. so its my last resort, at least 4 doctors think so. I just need some input from parents.
Oh, and I also would like to add: I always wanted to adopt children and will whether I become sterile or not. But accidents do happen, there not bad but there are accidents.
Oh! I used to use Acutain under a doctor's care. IT was great. I used to have acne since I was like in 7th grade. It is such an awful thing. What happens is that first your face will be really really red for a few weeks until the top few layers of thin skin are gone. And then your face will clear up. But you have to continue using it.
I used to also work in a doctor's office and he'd get Acutain samples. It was great getting it for free.
Your Kitty Forum
My Website
My Website
I need really good advice.
wow. a lot of replys. I am still reading through them: but here are some answers to some questions/comments.
Ok, I get all my statistics from my number one dermatoligist, who I pay for each visit, about 90 dollars. =/
Second, in males accutane can effect sperm cells. you see, pregneant women/women who want to be pregneant/hyperlu sexually active are usually prohbitited from taking it. It causes deformities in sperm cells, thus effecting baby development. I am not sure this is the whole truth, since I have to pay for it. but I am sure he cant completely lie to me.
Also, that orange juice bit was quite intresting. thanks for the concern, but I dont drink it much. Unless I am sick. =/
I am now using a thing called tazorac and duac, plus a hormonal medication. I have been doing it for a week now, no results. Its gotten a little worse.
I have an appointment for accutane on the 23rd and will keep you guys updated.
thanks to everyone. =DDD
Ok, I get all my statistics from my number one dermatoligist, who I pay for each visit, about 90 dollars. =/
Second, in males accutane can effect sperm cells. you see, pregneant women/women who want to be pregneant/hyperlu sexually active are usually prohbitited from taking it. It causes deformities in sperm cells, thus effecting baby development. I am not sure this is the whole truth, since I have to pay for it. but I am sure he cant completely lie to me.
Also, that orange juice bit was quite intresting. thanks for the concern, but I dont drink it much. Unless I am sick. =/
I am now using a thing called tazorac and duac, plus a hormonal medication. I have been doing it for a week now, no results. Its gotten a little worse.
I have an appointment for accutane on the 23rd and will keep you guys updated.
thanks to everyone. =DDD
-
Bill Sikes
- Posts: 5515
- Joined: Fri Aug 20, 2004 2:21 am
I need really good advice.
Jimmeh wrote: in males accutane can effect sperm cells. you see, pregneant women/women who want to be pregneant/hyperlu sexually active are usually prohbitited from taking it. It causes deformities in sperm cells, thus effecting baby development. I am not sure this is the whole truth, since I have to pay for it. but I am sure he cant completely lie to me.
Perhaps your adviser has not explained properly, or you have misunderstood -
just search for "accutane+sperm" (without the quotes!) on Google, and see
what gushes forth.
Perhaps your adviser has not explained properly, or you have misunderstood -
just search for "accutane+sperm" (without the quotes!) on Google, and see
what gushes forth.
I need really good advice.
I'm going to go donate blood again tomorrow, they some times have
informative hand-outs on different things, I'll see if they have any
current on the Accutane and I'll post if they do...
:-6
informative hand-outs on different things, I'll see if they have any
current on the Accutane and I'll post if they do...
:-6
-
Adam Zapple
- Posts: 977
- Joined: Mon Jul 04, 2005 3:13 am
I need really good advice.
I was on Accutane when it first hit the market. I have 3 healthy kids. Accutane worked great for me. I used it under a doctor's supervision. You have to closely monitor your cholestoral levels and possibly go on a regimented diet ( I did) but don't let the possible side effects scare you away, they have to inform you but they rarely occur. This is an effective tool to control and maybe even eradicate your acne. I started using it when I was 22, used it for just under a year and it effectively eliminated my cystic acne forever.
If you are still not reassured with the advice given here, just keep researching. As abbey stated, the danger of birth defects is mostly with females while on the medication. If you are sexual active and worried about the possibilities, talk to your doctor about it and wear a condom (which you should always do anyway). I'm not aware of any long term side effects of Accutane. But from personal experience, I don't think you have anything to worry about.
If you are still not reassured with the advice given here, just keep researching. As abbey stated, the danger of birth defects is mostly with females while on the medication. If you are sexual active and worried about the possibilities, talk to your doctor about it and wear a condom (which you should always do anyway). I'm not aware of any long term side effects of Accutane. But from personal experience, I don't think you have anything to worry about.
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cherandbuster
- Posts: 8594
- Joined: Mon May 15, 2006 11:33 am
I need really good advice.
Hey JMan!
I vote FOR the Accutane. I can see that your acne is affecting your self-image and self-confidence. We see how handsome you are inside :-4 , but when you look in the mirror you understandably see differently.
Best of luck, my friend JMan, and do let us know how things turn out for you.
You know we care. :-6
I vote FOR the Accutane. I can see that your acne is affecting your self-image and self-confidence. We see how handsome you are inside :-4 , but when you look in the mirror you understandably see differently.
Best of luck, my friend JMan, and do let us know how things turn out for you.
You know we care. :-6
Live Life with
PASSION!:guitarist
PASSION!:guitarist
I need really good advice.
valerie wrote: I'm going to go donate blood again tomorrow, they some times have
informative hand-outs on different things, I'll see if they have any
current on the Accutane and I'll post if they do...
:-6
Can I have some please ?
informative hand-outs on different things, I'll see if they have any
current on the Accutane and I'll post if they do...
:-6
Can I have some please ?
I AM AWESOME MAN
I need really good advice.
awh. I love you guys. =D :-6
and believe me, I will always wear condoms, espically with the things out there.
thanks loves. =DDD:guitarist
and believe me, I will always wear condoms, espically with the things out there.
thanks loves. =DDD:guitarist
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cherandbuster
- Posts: 8594
- Joined: Mon May 15, 2006 11:33 am
I need really good advice.
Hey JMan :-6
Have you made a decision about the Accutane yet?
And how is life going for you in general? Any improvements to share with us?
I like calling you JMan :p
Have you made a decision about the Accutane yet?
And how is life going for you in general? Any improvements to share with us?
I like calling you JMan :p
Live Life with
PASSION!:guitarist
PASSION!:guitarist
I need really good advice.
All drugs have possible side effects. I love the commercials on new drugs being advertised.
Possible side effects: large growth on forehead
could grow an ear on your knee
your bones will melt
yea send me of that please....and overnight it.
Possible side effects: large growth on forehead
could grow an ear on your knee
your bones will melt
yea send me of that please....and overnight it.
I AM AWESOME MAN
I need really good advice.
No I havent. Are you sure this is what you really mean ?
I AM AWESOME MAN
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white_rose
- Posts: 65
- Joined: Wed Aug 16, 2006 8:26 pm
I need really good advice.
Coming a bit late to this thread.
Jimmeh, have you thought about some natural ways of treatment.
Tea Tree oil for example...here's a link...
http://www.natural-acne-treatments.com/ ... -acne.html
sometimes nature works best
Jimmeh, have you thought about some natural ways of treatment.
Tea Tree oil for example...here's a link...
http://www.natural-acne-treatments.com/ ... -acne.html
sometimes nature works best
I need really good advice.
Birth effects are an issue only for women taking the drug, which is why no doctor will prescribe it to you unless you are also on an effective birth-control pill. However, at your age you shouldn't be getting anyone pregnant anyway, so keep swearing by those condoms (in my humble opinion, you're just a baby, so what are you doing having sex anyway? :wah: )
My friend (female) has used Tazorac, the one you're on now, and it worked great for her. However, as with most acne drugs, it takes a while for it to work, and at the beginning, it seems to make it worse (i.e. it brings the gunk out to the surface, which will make it seem like you're breaking out more, but in fact it's just stage one of clearing it out).
Another thing you might want to consider is talking to an endocrynologist. I'm surprised your derm hasn't referred you to one already, actually. One of the reasons for cystic acne is hormonal imbalance and perhaps a mild hormone regimen might help your skin balance itself. For women, that's often done with birth-control pills. I'm not sure what the treatment would be for men. If the endo discovers a hormonal problem, treating it will probably help more than your acne. The reason why I'm mentioning this is because between the ages of 10 and 14, I also suffered from pretty bad acne. It turned out the main reason was a polycystic ovary: it produced a massive cyst which could have burst and killed me if I didn't have surgery. After the surgery, my acne cleared up by itself, although I also used a very common salicylic acid lotion. Sure, I have combination skin and I occasionally get mild breakouts, but nothing foundation won't cover.
Now don't get scared: since you don't have ovaries, you won't need surgery :wah: But it may be that the endo will prescribe some pills. It seems to me that if you are seriously worried about Accutane, you might want to consult this avenue as well and see what happens. I know how emotionally scarring acne is, but you also might want to wait a few years and see if you get adult acne. If you do, then Accutane may be the solution.
My friend (female) has used Tazorac, the one you're on now, and it worked great for her. However, as with most acne drugs, it takes a while for it to work, and at the beginning, it seems to make it worse (i.e. it brings the gunk out to the surface, which will make it seem like you're breaking out more, but in fact it's just stage one of clearing it out).
Another thing you might want to consider is talking to an endocrynologist. I'm surprised your derm hasn't referred you to one already, actually. One of the reasons for cystic acne is hormonal imbalance and perhaps a mild hormone regimen might help your skin balance itself. For women, that's often done with birth-control pills. I'm not sure what the treatment would be for men. If the endo discovers a hormonal problem, treating it will probably help more than your acne. The reason why I'm mentioning this is because between the ages of 10 and 14, I also suffered from pretty bad acne. It turned out the main reason was a polycystic ovary: it produced a massive cyst which could have burst and killed me if I didn't have surgery. After the surgery, my acne cleared up by itself, although I also used a very common salicylic acid lotion. Sure, I have combination skin and I occasionally get mild breakouts, but nothing foundation won't cover.
Now don't get scared: since you don't have ovaries, you won't need surgery :wah: But it may be that the endo will prescribe some pills. It seems to me that if you are seriously worried about Accutane, you might want to consult this avenue as well and see what happens. I know how emotionally scarring acne is, but you also might want to wait a few years and see if you get adult acne. If you do, then Accutane may be the solution.
The power of MEOW