Roaccutane: depression, dryness and other side effects –

Famous medicine for the treatment of severe or resistant cases of acne, the roaccutane – also known as isotretinoinis a remedy that reduces the activity, size and amount of sebum produced in the sebaceous glands. this medicine it can only be purchased with a prescription, requiring medical follow-up and frequent blood tests. “This drug causes several Side effects to the patient, who must sign an informed consent form. Therefore, a rigorous evaluation and numerous tests are carried out before indicating isotretinoin”, explains the doctor specialist in dermatology, Dr Geisa Costa.

In recent weeks, this drug has again attracted attention, this time on social networks such as Twitter and TikTok, with reports from users about the physical and emotional side effects caused by the drug. One of the reports on the network highlighted depression: “I loved the result that Roaccutane gave me, but only those who lived with me during that time know how difficult it was. I almost went into depression, apart from my outbreaks”.

On the Chinese social network, TikTok, there are two hashtags to address the issue. #roacutanchallenge has more than 17 million views and #roacutanchallenge has 3.9 million views. In both it is possible to view videos of before and after the treatment with the medicine. One of the recent controversies on the social network was that Roaccutane thins people’s noses – a theory denied by dermatologists. “There is no minimum age to recommend the use of isotretinoin, but we do not usually prescribe it for patients under 12 years old, because in this case it would have to be indicated by the pediatrician”, shares the doctor Herbeth Sobral.

Roaccutane side effects

A synthetic derivative of vitamin A, isotretinoin causes the skin to flake, decreasing the production of sebum and with it, the inflammation of the skin caused by acne. “The drug is used in case of resistant or severe acne, those we call nodulocystic (grade 3) and inflammatory acne of grade 2, when this has not improved with other types of treatments. The most common effects caused during treatment are: dryness of the skin and mucous membranes, dryness of the eyes and nose, and in some cases even headaches and a little hair loss”, comments Costa.

In the body, the drug can cause an increase in blood fat, in addition to an increase in cholesterol and triglyceride levels – here is explained the monthly need for follow-up and blood tests. “In some cases, the liver can also be overloaded, so we do not recommend alcohol consumption during treatment”, he says. Furthermore, isotretinoin is expressly contraindicated for pregnant women, as it can cause the formation and development of anomalies in the uterus and consequently the malformation of the embryo.

Tips to minimize the effects of Roaccutane

A duration of treatment may vary according to the daily dose and complete remission of acne, which usually occurs between 16 to 24 weeks. “The dose of medication is individualized, that is, we evaluate it according to the patient’s weight and the degree of inflammation caused by acne”, says Sobral.

If you are being treated with medication, there are some tips on how to take care of fragile skin and keep it very well hydrated and protected. “The skin is very dry and sensitive, so apply a powerful moisturizer to take care of the most affected areas and don’t forget to also protect it with a sunscreen with a high UV index. For the lips, the skin can break and this causes a lot of discomfort and pain in the region. Do not dispense with the use of specific moisturizers and butters for the mouth”, says Costa. Did you know that eyes can also become drier and more irritated? Therefore, consult your doctor to understand which eye drops are most recommended.

“Saline solution can be a great ally for the nose region – especially on drier days. For patients who are ingesting high doses of the drug, some treatments are contraindicated, such as laser, surgery and even tattoos, since Roaccutane can disturb the skin healing process”, indicates Sobral.

The air humidifier can be a great ally during treatment with Roaccutane. This equipment condenses the water molecules scattered throughout the environment, making the air more humid and pleasant to breathe. “Oh, and of course, don’t forget the most important thing: keep your body hydrated with lots of water, in addition to a good diet”, adds Costa. Remember: the more regular your daily skin and body care is, the easier the treatment with the roaccutane.