Accutane Treatment in Hollywood, FL

Clearing Up The Facts About How Accutane Works for Treating Severe Acne

Is Accutane Still Available To Treat Acne?

Yes (and No). Accutane is the brand name for the medication isotretinoin.  Like all retinoids, it is a derivative of Vitamin A. The brand Accutane is no longer available, but there are multiple generic forms of isotretinoin on the market. We at Minars Dermatology in Hollywood, FL see no significant difference between these brands and consider them interchangeable.

When Do You Prescribe Isotretinoin (Accutane)?

It is typically the second-line treatment for severe or cystic acne that has not responded to other oral (or topical) forms of acne treatment.  Sometimes it is our first choice for patients who seem to be at risk for acne scars, or for patients who come to us after having failed other treatments.  Isotretinoin works by shrinking the oil glands in the skin that produce sebum. Sebum attracts bacteria that create acne.

Does Accutane Work? What Is Accutane Success Rate?

Accutane treatment has a high average success rate of around 85% for patients who complete the entire 6-month course. For patients with severe or cystic acne, a 6-month course of Accutane offers the best treatment to alleviate the symptoms of severe acne by slowing down the growth of skin cells that can clog pores.

To avoid really dry lips or any other discomfort, we start patients at a low dose and slowly increase each month until we get to the correct dose for their weight.   We will also advise you to stay hydrated and to keep your skin well moisturized at all times.

Accutane Tips Video

How Much Does Accutane Cost?

The cost of Accutane treatments is typically covered by most health insurance. A patient simply has to pay their copay/deductible and then the actual treatment costs are covered by their insurance.

For self-pay patients who do not have health insurance coverage for Accutane treatments we typically charge our standard medical office visit fee of $250 for the first visit. Any subsequent follow-up visits during the six-month Accutane treatment course would cost $125. There is also the potential that a patient might need additional procedures like lab work or cortisone injections related to the acne treatment and these would be an additional charge.

Patients also need to be aware that they are responsible for the cost of the drug as well. The cost for Accutane or rather isotretinoin since the brand name Accutane has been discontinued ranges anywhere from $65-$400. At our Hollywood dermatology office, we typically refer our patients to our local pharmacy which currently charges $55 for 30 pills, although this price is always subject to change.

Accutane Treatment for Acne Case Studies

In this section, I’ll share a few recent experiences I’ve had treating patients with Accutane. These stories reflect the real-world results, challenges, and considerations that come with this powerful treatment.

Case 1: A 25-Year-Old Woman with Persistent Cystic Acne

One of the most memorable cases recently was a 25-year-old woman who had been struggling with severe cystic acne for several years. She had tried countless over-the-counter treatments and even some antibiotics, but nothing worked. She came to see me because she was tired of feeling like acne was controlling her life. After a thorough evaluation, we decided to start her on Accutane.

By the third month of treatment, her acne was almost entirely gone. Her confidence skyrocketed, and she mentioned feeling “like herself again” for the first time in years. The initial dry lips and slight irritation were manageable, and by the end of the treatment, she had clear skin with no new breakouts.

This is a prime example of why Accutane can be a game-changer for patients who haven’t responded to other treatments.

Case 2: A Teenage Boy with Scarring from Severe Acne

Another recent case involved a teenage boy who had severe acne that had already begun to cause scarring. His acne wasn’t just persistent; it was leaving permanent marks on his face, which deeply affected his self-esteem. After several consultations, we determined that Accutane was his best option to stop the progression of scarring and clear up the acne for good.

Within two months of starting treatment, his acne significantly improved, and the scarring started to fade. His parents were relieved, and he felt much better about his appearance. We worked together to ensure he followed all the steps for Accutane safely, including regular check-ups and the Ipledge program.

This case highlights the importance of not waiting too long to address acne, especially when scarring is already present. Early intervention can lead to better long-term results.

Case 3: A 30-Year-Old Woman Who Tried Everything Before Accutane

A 30-year-old woman came to see me after having tried nearly every acne treatment on the market. She had used topical treatments, antibiotics, and even laser treatments, but her acne had remained persistent, especially around her chin and jawline. She felt like she was out of options and was ready to try Accutane.

After starting her on a six-month course, her acne cleared up quickly, and she also experienced less oil on her skin—one of the first signs that Accutane was working. By the end of her treatment, she was completely clear, and the acne had not returned. She was thrilled, not just with her appearance but with the confidence she gained in the process.

Her story is a testament to how Accutane can offer a fresh start when other treatments have failed. It can feel like a last resort, but for many, it’s exactly what’s needed to turn things around.

Accutane And Pregnancy

Women of child-bearing potential who take this drug must be on two forms of birth control (or completely abstinent), as it can cause severe birth defects if taken while pregnant. Most woman use 1- an oral contraceptive pill, and 2 – condoms as their two forms of birth control.

iPledge System

The iPledge system is a mandatory registry that all patients on Accutane must enroll in (its purpose is mainly to prevent pregnancy in Accutane patients). Both men and women who take the Accutane must sign up for the iPledge system. We will register you and explain how to use it during your initial visit.

Accutane iPledge Tips

Side Effects Of Accutane/Isotretinoin

Like any drug, you should read the package insert which is comprehensive.  We can share with you our extensive experience with this medication:  Our practice has been regularly prescribing this drug since 1981.   We have never witnessed any serious side effects for patients.  The common side effects are chapped lips (which everyone gets) and other effects of “dryness” (dry skin and dry nose/eyes). We also occasionally have to manage an increase in cholesterol (which is temporary and responds to simply lowering the dose).   We also sometimes see nose bleeds (secondary to dryness) and muscle aches.

The main “side effect” that we worry about is a severe birth defect that would occur if a woman got pregnant while taking Accutane (this of course is preventable – and this is why two forms of birth control or required to prevent pregnancy.)

Is Isotretinoin Right For You?

If you are struggling with acne that is not responding to other forms of treatment, we are happy to talk to you at length about using isotretinoin.   Like many of our colleagues, we believe this is an excellent and affordable option for many patients dealing with problem acne.  We have encountered many cases of acne where nothing BUT Accutane works.  And Accutane seems to work just about every time we use it.

If you’re interested in learning more about isotretinoin in the Hollywood, FL area, then please call us for an appointment. We can speak to you about this and other treatment options such as the best laser treatment for active acne.