Contents
What is Accutane(Isotretinoin) and How is it Used in Singapore?
Accutane, also known as isotretinoin, is an oral medication used to treat severe acne and has been approved in Singapore since 1990. These medications belong to the retinoid class, which are derived from Vitamin A. In Singapore, the Acne Management Guidelines published by the Dermatological Society of Singapore recommend isotretinoin as a treatment option, particularly for patients who have not responded to other therapies. While Accutane is one of the most well-known brand names, other isotretinoin-based medications, such as Roaccutane and Oratane, are also commonly prescribed. Currently, four brands are registered in Singapore: Acnotin, Nimegen, Oratane, and Roaccutane.
Due to its potent effects, isotretinoin is usually reserved for patients who have not seen improvement with other acne treatments, such as topical retinoids or oral antibiotics. However, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks. Isotretinoin requires close medical supervision, especially for women of childbearing age, as it can cause serious birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Because of these risks, it is critical to consult with a doctor to determine if isotretinoin-based treatments like Accutane, Roaccutane, or Oratane are appropriate for your specific case.
Why Is Accutane Effective for Acne Treatment?
The effectiveness of accutane (isotretinoin) comes from its ability to target multiple underlying causes of acne. Here are the four main mechanisms that make Accutane so effective.
1. Reduction in Sebum Production
One of the primary reasons why Accutane is so effective in treating acne is its ability to drastically reduce sebum production. Sebum, the natural oil produced by your skin, can clog pores and contribute to acne formation. By shrinking the size of the sebaceous glands and limiting the amount of sebum they produce, Accutane helps to create a less favorable environment for acne to develop. This decrease in sebum reduces the likelihood of clogged pores and acne breakouts.
2. Normalization of Skin Cell Turnover
In patients with acne, dead skin cells can accumulate and mix with sebum, causing pores to become blocked. This is known as abnormal keratinization. Accutane helps normalize this process by promoting proper skin cell turnover, preventing the build-up of dead skin cells that clog pores. As a result, pores remain clearer, and fewer acne lesions form.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Accutane also has significant anti-inflammatory properties, which are especially helpful for patients suffering from severe, painful acne, such as cystic acne. Inflammation plays a critical role in the formation of red, swollen acne lesions, and by reducing inflammation, Accutane can help alleviate these symptoms, leading to quicker healing and less discomfort for the patient.
4. Reduction of Acne-Causing Bacteria
While Accutane is not an antibiotic, it indirectly reduces the levels of acne-causing bacteria (Cutibacterium acnes) by minimizing the amount of sebum on the skin. Acne bacteria thrive in oily environments, and by reducing oil production, Accutane makes it harder for these bacteria to proliferate. This, in turn, reduces acne severity and helps prevent future breakouts.
Who is a Suitable Candidate for Accutane Treatment?
Accutane (isotretinoin) is suitable for individuals who suffer from severe forms of acne, such as nodular or cystic acne, which can lead to permanent scarring if left untreated. Candidates for Accutane are typically those who have not responded well to other treatments, including topical therapies and oral antibiotics. This medication is generally reserved for patients whose acne significantly impacts their daily life, both physically and emotionally.
However, certain individuals are not ideal candidates for Accutane. Women who are pregnant or planning to become pregnant should avoid this medication due to the risk of severe birth defects. Additionally, those with pre-existing health conditions such as liver disease, high cholesterol, or mental health concerns must consult with their doctor to determine whether isotretinoin is a safe option. A thorough medical evaluation is essential to confirm that Accutane is the appropriate treatment, ensuring both safety and effectiveness based on the individual’s unique health circumstances.
What to Expect During Accutane Treatment?
When beginning Accutane treatment, it is essential to understand that the journey may last several months. The dosage of Accutane will depend on the patient’s weight and the severity of their acne. During the early weeks, acne symptoms may worsen slightly as the medication begins to work, which is normal and should not be a cause for concern. Most patients experience improvement by some months of treatment.
Patients should be aware of potential issues like dry skin, chapped lips, and dry eyes, which are common during treatment. However, these side effects usually improve after the treatment is completed.
Accutane Benefits: How It Can Improve Severe Acne
One of the Accutane primary benefits is its ability to target the root cause of acne by significantly reducing sebum production. Sebum is the oily substance produced by glands in the skin that can clog pores and lead to acne. By minimizing this production, Accutane helps to prevent new acne from forming and reduces the likelihood of severe breakouts.
Another major benefit of Accutane is its long-term effects. Many patients find that after completing a course of treatment, their acne does not return, or if it does, it is significantly milder than before. This long-lasting improvement can be particularly valuable for individuals who have struggled with chronic acne for many years. Additionally, by reducing the severity of acne, Accutane can help to prevent the formation of acne scars, improving not only the skin’s appearance but also the patient’s overall confidence and emotional well-being.
However, the effects of Accutane come with potential risks, which is why it is reserved for more severe cases. It is crucial to consult with a doctor to fully understand both the benefits and the risks before beginning treatment.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of Accutane
While Accutane is effective in treating severe acne, it is not without its risks. One of the most serious risks associated with Accutane is its potential to cause severe birth defects if taken during pregnancy. For this reason, women of childbearing age must take extra precautions, including using strict birth control before, during, and after treatment. Additionally, patients must undergo regular medical evaluations to monitor for any adverse effects during the course of treatment.
Common side effects of Accutane include dry skin, chapped lips, and dry eyes. These symptoms occur because isotretinoin reduces oil production in the skin, which can lead to increased dryness. In some cases, nosebleeds, dry mouth, and skin sensitivity to sunlight may also occur. Using moisturizers and lip balms can help manage these side effects, while sunscreen is essential for protecting the skin from UV damage during treatment.
More serious, but less common side effects include liver dysfunction, elevated cholesterol levels, and mood changes, including depression. Patients undergoing Accutane treatment are recommended to have regular blood tests to monitor liver function and cholesterol levels. If symptoms like severe headaches, vision changes, or persistent nausea occur, it is critical to seek medical attention immediately.
Accutane's powerful effects and potential side effects make it necessary for patients to work closely with their healthcare providers to ensure the treatment is both safe and effective.
Accutane Precautions: What You Need to Know Before Starting Treatment
Before starting Accutane treatment, there are several important precautions to ensure the medication is used safely and effectively. The most critical precaution is for women of childbearing age. Due to the risk of severe birth defects, women must use contraception during treatment and for a certain period after completing it to avoid pregnancy. This is crucial to minimize the risk of serious congenital abnormalities.
Another important precaution is to avoid certain medications and supplements while using Accutane. Some combinations can increase the risk of serious side effects. Additionally, alcohol consumption should be avoided as it may worsen liver-related side effects.
During treatment, your skin will become more sensitive and prone to scarring. Therefore, it is essential to consult your doctor before undergoing skin treatments such as waxing, laser procedures, or chemical peels. Since Accutane also increases sensitivity to UV rays, it is recommended to minimize sun exposure and use sunscreen regularly.
Lastly, regular follow-up visits with your doctor are essential. Accutane treatment should always be carefully monitored and adjusted by a healthcare provider to ensure it remains both safe and effective.
Isotretinoin Before and After: A Detailed Look at Its Effects
Due to regulations by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore, before-and-after photos of treatments, including isotretinoin, cannot be displayed on our website. However, during a consultation with the doctor, you may have the opportunity to view these images to help you better understand the potential outcomes of the treatment.
How to Get Accutane Prescribed in Singapore: The Process Explained
In Singapore, Accutane (isotretinoin) is a prescription-only medication and cannot be purchased over the counter. To obtain a prescription, you must first consult with a doctor. The doctor will assess your acne condition, medical history, and any treatments you have previously tried. Based on this evaluation, the doctor will determine whether Accutane is an appropriate treatment, taking into consideration the potential risks and side effects.
Accutane is highly effective for treating severe acne, but it also carries risks, making proper management essential. If you are considering Accutane as a treatment option, it is advisable to consult with a doctor who has extensive experience in acne treatment to ensure the safest and most effective approach.
We offer acne treatment using Accutane at our clinic. For more details, please visit our acne treatment page.
This blog post was medically reviewed by Yutaka Shimokawa.
【References】