Is there an alternative to Accutane that has fewer side effects?

Question

Dr. Yoram Harth · Accepted Answer

There is no alternative to accutane. Accutane is the most potent drug in acne treatment and the only drug that can really control severe and cystic acne for the long term. Having said that people with mild to moderate acne should start their treatment with effective topical anti acne medications such as MDacne that contain micronized benzoyl peroxide. Once, the creams are personalized to the user’s skin and the products are used regularly there is a significant chance for skin improvement. People with moderate or severe acne that do not improve with topical medication (creams) will need to consider using a more portent treatment such as accutane. There is no alternative to accutane. Accutane is the most potent drug in acne treatment and the only drug that can really control severe and cystic acne for the long term. Having said that people with mild to moderate acne should start their treatment with effective topical anti acne medications such as MDacne that contain micronized benzoyl peroxide. Once, the creams are personalized to the user’s skin and the products are used regularly there is a significant chance for skin improvement. People with moderate or severe acne that do not improve with topical medication (creams) will need to consider using a more portent treatment such as accutane. The honest answer is, there's really no alternative to Accutane. Accutane is the most potent drug available for acne treatment and the only drug proven to control severe and cystic acne long-term. Having said that, people with mild to moderate acne should start their treatment with effective topical anti-acne medications such as MDacne that contain micronized benzoyl peroxide. By using (and committing to) topical treatments that are personalized to the user’s skin, there is a significant chance for skin improvement without the need for oral medications such as Accutane. However, people with moderate or severe acne that do not improve with topical treatment alone should consult with a doctor or dermatologist about adding in an oral medication such as Accutane. Here are some additional resources on Accutane you may find helpful! Our dermatologist’s Accutane Advice Top 5 benefits of Accutane Read this before you start Accutane

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Is there an alternative to Accutane that has fewer side effects?

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