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I've been on Isotretinoin 30mg Capsules for about two months now for my severe acne. My doctor warned me about the side effects, and I've read the list, but I'm still freaking out. So far, I've just had dry skin and lips, which is manageable, but my friend told me someone she knows had to go to the hospital because of some serious side effects. I'm wondering if anyone else has had really bad experiences with this med. Is it worth the risk? Or should I be more scared than I already am? How do I know if I'm having a real problem? I wanted to ask here for some real-life opinions because my doctor is great, but I want to hear from people who have been through it.

1 min read
last active 4/18/2026
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Comments (9)

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nancy_santos4/15/2026

I took Isotretinoin for 6 months, and it was the best decision I ever made. My acne was gone, and the side effects were minor for me. Just make sure to follow your doctor's instructions and stay hydrated.

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timothy_thompson4/15/2026

I had a friend who had a skin reaction to Isotretinoin and ended up in the hospital. Horrible experience. They had to stop the treatment immediately and found other ways to manage their acne.

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nicholas_schmidt4/15/2026

I’m so scared to start this stuff. Ive had acne since 13 and I’m 19 now, but I know there’s a chance I won’t feel good, and I’m scared to have side effects I can’t handle.

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joe_james4/15/2026

I was on Isotretinoin for a year and had some pretty brutal side effects. I had bad dryness, chapped lips, and joint pain, which was really tough to deal with. But I also had a family history of depression and anxiety, so I was super anxious about the mental side effects. My doctor monitored me closely, and thankfully, I didn't experience any mood changes. However, I did experience hair loss. It was hard, but I think it was worth it in the end because my skin is so much better, and I couldn't find a regimen that worked to clear it at all. I'm glad I did it, but it was rough.

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james_morrison4/15/2026

I had to stop Isotretinoin because I developed severe back pain and couldn't function. It was awful, and I was only on it for three months. I wish I had known about the potential for serious side effects before starting. Now I'm back to my dermatologist looking for other treatment options. It's unfortunate, but I had a bad experience.

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elena_vargas4/15/2026

I had anxiety issues while on Isotretinoin, but my doctor was able to manage them with therapy and monitoring. I think the key is to stay in close contact with your healthcare provider and be open about any changes you experience.

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kenneth_jordan4/15/2026

I had to take Isotretinoin for two years, and while I had some side effects, it cleared my acne completely. Dryness was real but bearable, but I was always worried about the mental health issues. I recommend talking to your doctor often about any changes you notice and having a support system in place. It can be a tough journey, but it's worth it if you have severe acne.

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susan_wilson4/15/2026

Honestly, if you're on Isotretinoin, I recommend keeping a journal of side effects and symptoms. It helps you track how you're feeling and makes it easier to discuss with your doctor. I was on it for a year and a half and had some bad days, but I remember how hard my acne was before, so the side effects were worth it. Also, drink lots of water and use heavy moisturizer to combat the dryness.

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david_okonkwo4/15/2026

I had to take Isotretinoin and I wish more people talked about the severe side effects. I had to stop taking it because of liver issues. It was scary. I hope you’re okay.