The ESK blog
How safe is Accutane for my teen?
05 August 2024
Dr Ginni Mansberg
Hello fellow parents and carers! Let’s chat about a big topic on your radar: is oral Accutane (isotretinoin) safe for teenagers? How do you decide if it’s the right step for your teen? Let’s break it down, with answers to all your burning questions to help you feel confident about your decision.
Accutane Safety: The Scoop
Accutane is a powerhouse when it comes to treating severe acne. Here’s why it’s considered safe and effective for teens:
Multi Pronged Attack on Acne:
Accutane:
- Inhibits the C. Acnes bacteria that causes acne
- Helps get rid of excess dead skin cells (keratinocytes) that tend to build up and block pores causing pimples.
- Reduces sebum (oil) production AND the size of oil glands
- Is anti-inflammatory
Proven Track Record: Accutane has been used for decades to treat severe acne. Dermatologists know it well and have extensive experience managing its use.
High Success Rate: It’s incredibly effective, often clearing up acne when other treatments have failed.
Supervised Use: Accutane is prescribed with close medical supervision, including regular check-ins and blood tests to monitor your teen’s health. In Australia and the UK, Accutane is only prescribed by a dermatologist.
Making the Decision: What Should Parents Consider?
Deciding to start your teen on Accutane isn’t a light decision, and that’s okay! Here are some key factors to mull over:
Severity of Acne: Is your teen’s acne severe and resistant to other treatments? If topical treatments and antibiotics haven’t worked, Accutane might be the next step.
Emotional Impact: Severe acne can significantly affect your teen’s self-esteem and mental health. In fact, teens with acne get twice as much depression as those with clear skin, so helping them get rid of acne will give them more than just a clear face. If acne is impacting their quality of life, Accutane could be a game-changer.
Many parents are worried about reports linking taking accutane to depression. A recent meta-analysis of trials of Accutane and mental health was super reassuring. It showed that the severe acne itself is the missing link and treating acne with Accutane actually lowers the risk of serious depression and suicide.
Commitment: Accutane requires commitment. Your teen will need to follow a strict regimen, including taking the medication daily or twice a day and attending regular doctor appointments.
Things to Be Aware of Beforehand
Knowledge is power! Here’s what you need to know before your teen starts Accutane:
Side Effects: The most common ones include dry skin, chapped lips, muscle aches, fatigue headaches, nausea and increased sun sensitivity. Rare but serious side effects can occur, so regular monitoring is crucial. This will be done by your dermatologist.
Mental Health: While there’s no direct link between Accutane and mental health issues, it’s important to monitor your teen for any mood changes and keep open communication with their healthcare provider. If they were to develop severe depression on Accutane, it would be stopped immediately, just in case.
Pregnancy Precautions: If your teen is a girl, it’s vital to understand the strict birth control requirements, as Accutane can cause severe birth defects. She needs to use contraception before, during and for one month after using Accutane. This is for all teens born with a uterus, even if they have not yet been sexually active.
Which type of contraception is enough? You need a ‘highly effective’ form of contraception (defined as having a failure rate of less than 1%). This may be an IUD, or a contraceptive implant which has been inserted at least 4 weeks ago.
OR
Your teen could also choose two forms of less effective contraception together. Options include the hormonal contraceptive pill or a contraceptive injection plus a barrier method (eg. a condom).
Steps to Take Before Starting Accutane
Set your teen up for success with these proactive steps:
Consult a Dermatologist: Your teen’s dermatologist will evaluate their overall health. They’ll provide a thorough rundown of what to expect.
Blood Tests: Your teen will need blood tests before starting Accutane to check for any potential issues and establish a baseline for monitoring.
Develop a Skincare Routine: Prep their skin with a gentle skincare routine. This includes a mild cleanser, a hydrating moisturiser, and a broad-spectrum sunscreen.
Stock Up on Essentials: Have plenty of lip balm, moisturizers, and sunscreen on hand. Accutane can dry out the skin, so these will be lifesavers.
Support System: Create a support system for your teen. This could be regular check-ins with you, their GP, and even mental health support if needed.
Final Thoughts
Starting Accutane is a big step, but it can be life-changing for teens struggling with severe acne. By staying informed, working closely with a dermatologist, and providing lots of support, you can help your teen navigate this journey smoothly.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. Reach out to healthcare professionals with any concerns, and keep communication open with your teen. Together, you’ve got this!