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25 years
I am a male,26 yrs, around 80 kgs, I will start taking 20 mg of roacuttane per day, can I drink alcohol, go to the beach? What should I avoid
Aug 26, 2014

Dr. Rania Mousa General Medicine
Roaccutane capsules contain the active ingredient isotretinoin.
Isotretinoin belongs to a group of medicines known as retinoids,a derivative of vitamin A. It is taken by mouth works by reducing the production of the skin’s natural oil (sebum).

Your acne may worsen at the start of treatment, but this usually subsides within 7 to 10 days of continued treatment. In most cases, complete or near-complete clearing of acne is achieved with a 12 to 16 week course of treatment, and you are likely to remain free of acne for a long time.

the treatment course is about 5-6 month despite the symptoms gone .

>You will need to have a blood test to monitor your liver function before you start treatment with this medicine, one month after starting and then at further three-monthly intervals.

>The amount of lipids (fats such as cholesterol and triglycerides) in your blood should also be monitored before treatment, one month after starting treatment and at three-monthly intervals.

> If your blood level of triglycerides becomes too high, your isotretinoin dose may need to be reduced and you may have to go on a low fat diet. If your triglycerides cannot be controlled, you may have to stop treatment with isotretinoin.

>This medicine may increase your blood sugar level. People with diabetes may need to monitor their blood sugar more frequently during treatment with this medicine.

>Do not donate blood while you are taking isotretinoin and for at least 1 month after you stop taking it.

>This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths, and sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.

>Avoid the use of alcohol while taking this medication because it may increase the risk of certain side effects.

>Isotretinoin can affect your night vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision after dark until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

>If you wear contact lenses, you may not tolerate them as well as usual while using this medication. Contact your doctor for more information.

>Do not have cosmetic procedures to smooth your skin (waxing, laser, dermabrasion) during and for 6 months after isotretinoin therapy. Skin scarring may occur.

-Limited information suggests isotretinoin may cause some bone loss effects. -Therefore, playing contact or repetitive impact sports ( football, basketball, soccer, tennis) may result in bone problems, including an increased risk of broken bones

So it is advisable to follow these precautions and tips when using roaccutane medicine and it s better to be under your doctor prescription for necessary blood tests and check ups.
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