In order to reduce or prevent the typical isotretinoin lip inflammation shown here, try Lip Balm plus Omega-3 supplements. See below

ISOTRETINOIN (Accutane)

Isotretinoin is a pill used to treat moderate to severe acne.
It can cause serious birth defects if taken by a woman when pregnant.
If you are female of child-bearing potential, don't get pregnant while on this medication.
It is usually taken for about 6 months and can "cure" acne. Some patients, particularly younger ones, may need a second course.
All forms of isotretinoin (except Absorica) should be taken with a fatty meal for full absorption.
All patients, both male and female, have to register with and participate in the government's Ipledge Program ("I pledge not to get pregnant").
If you have a history of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohns, Ulcerative colitis), let your doctor know.
While on Isotretinoin, don't donate blood (keeps the recipient of the blood from being exposed).

Potential Side Effects

Potential Side Effect	Ways to Avoid/Treat
Dry Skin	Moisturizer several times a day
Dry or Blood-Shot Eyes	Eye Drops
Dry Lips	Lip Balm plus Omega-3 supplements, see below
Flare of acne	If severe, call your doctor. Loratadin (Claritin) 10 mg/day, see below
Nose bleeds	Vaseline up the nose, several times a day
Muscle aches, e.g. low back pain	Not uncommon, but if severe or persistant let your doctor know.
Decreased vision at night	Stop the medication and notify your doctor immediately
Depression, mood changes, suicidal thoughts	Stop the medication, get help and notify your doctor immediately
Worst headache you've ever had	Stop the medication and notify your doctor immediately

Other potential side effects include: sun sensitivity, abdominal pain, diarrhea, bloody stool, toenail/fingernail inflammation, hair loss, decreased night vision. Please let your doctor know if you are having trouble with any of the above.

Antihistamines to reduce flare and side effects

Take Loratadine (claritin) 10 mg/day along with the isotretinoin to reduce acne flare and other side effects.

Omega 3s

Take 1000 mg/day of omega-3 fatty acids (e.g. Nature Made or Nature's Bounty) to reduce rates of lip inflammation, lip and nasal dryness and dry skin. Note, not all fish oil is omega-3. Make sure to buy omega-3.

Moisturizers

Moisturizing creams (not lotions) e.g. Eucerin cream, Cetaphil after the shower are excellent.

Sun Protection

Isotretinoin can increase sun sensitivity so protect yourself with hats, sunscreen etc.

Alcohol

Moderate alcohol consumption may not be good for your health but it is not contraindicated when on isotretinoin.

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