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Acne

Does Accutane Cause Weight Gain Or Loss?

- Written By

Sana Farhan, MS Healthcare

Updated on

This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts. Our team of experts strive to be objective, unbiased, honest and to present both sides of the argument. This article contains scientific references. Read more about our process.

does accutane cause weight gain

Welcome to the ultimate guide on the topic does accutane cause weight gain? In this comprehensive introduction, we will delve into the facts and dispel the myths surrounding Accutane’s potential impact on weight

Drugs used to treat persistent acne include isotretinoin, often known as Accutane. It reduces the amount of oil the skin secretes, which causes hair loss. In turn, it helps to prevent acne.

Since other acne treatments haven’t worked, doctors frequently recommend the potent medication Accutane. It usually lasts 15 to 20 weeks, and a second treatment may be required in certain situations. It’s critical to comprehend how accutane functions to understand whether accutane causes weight gain. 

The potent drug Accutane may cause some serious adverse side effects. These negative effects might involve muscular pains, bleeding noses, cracked lips, and itchy skin. Rarely, Accutane may also have more severe adverse effects, including depression and harm to the liver. Accutane is only recommended for extreme acne due to these possible adverse effects.

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Does Accutane cause weight gain?

Although Accutane’s adverse effect listing includes weight gain, no conclusive evidence exists that Accutane causes weight gain.

Everyone will experience Accutane differently, except for only a few known adverse effects that are generally constant.

As a result, it is hard to state for sure whether or not Accutane causes weight gain.

However, based on knowledge gathered over time, there is little chance that taking Accutane causes weight gain if used to treat acne.

The Perception of Accutane and Weight Gain Debunked

Although there is no evidence or proof of an association between Accutane and weight gain, the myth prevails. There may be numerous explanations for this. One is that people considering starting any medicine frequently worry about gaining weight. Furthermore, Accutane is commonly associated with mistrust because it is a strong medicine with severe possible adverse effects.

It’s crucial to note that there is no proof that Accutane causes weight gain. According to research, any increase in weight that may happen while taking Accutane is most often the result of other factors, such as alterations in food or exercise routines.

In reality, research has shown no conclusive evidence of a connection that directly Accutane causes weight gain.

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Factors That Could Lead to Weight Gain While Taking Accutane

Although Accutane alone is not a significant contributor to weight gain, several other variables can cause so while using Accutane. 

1) Dietary adjustments 

Changing the diet is one of them. Most Accutane users have dry skin and chapped lips, challenging some meals. As a result, individuals may select meals that are simpler to finish yet are rich in calories and fat.

2) Changes in the workout routine

Workout delay or modifications may also lead to body weight gain while taking Accutane. While using Accutane, some people may develop joint and muscular discomfort, making it challenging to work out.

3) Restriction on physical activities

Furthermore, because Accutane is a potent drug, it’s vital to refrain from engaging in specific activities when taking it, including athletics. This could restrict the kinds of physical activity that people can do.

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How to Manage Your Weight While Taking Accutane?

There are several activities you may do to assist in managing your weight gain if you start to notice it.

1) Skip the junk stuff.

The initial thing you may do to keep your weight in check while taking Accutane is to attempt to limit your fast food intake.

Since processed food comprises abundant processed carbs, sweeteners, and appealing fats, it often leads to overeating.

Yet, most of these meals frequently lack dietary fiber, vitamins, proteins, and numerous other essential substances that the body needs to perform at its most efficiently.

Gaining weight is an inevitable outcome of reduced performance, and it can occur swiftly—in as little as a couple of months if you consume junk food.

2) Consume more fruits and vegetables.

Eating more fruits and vegetables is considered one of the healthiest things you can do while taking Accutane.

Antioxidant compounds, nutrients, and other vital elements crucial for optimal wellness are abundant in vegetables and fruits.

Additionally, they are minimal in calories and abundant in fiber, so they’ll keep you full without making you gain weight.

3) Consume Sufficient Protein

Protein is another vital component your body requires to maintain optimal functioning, which is crucial if you’re using Accutane.

Protein supports the body’s defense, aids muscular development and repair, and boosts energy.

4) Maintain exercise routine

Maintain your workout regimen despite the possibility that you might have to change it 

while using Accutane. This will promote general wellness and help prevent weight gain.

5) Drink plenty of water.

Water is essential to staying hydrated while taking Accutane because it can lead to dry skin and chapped lips.

6) Consult your doctor

If you are worried that taking Accutane causes weight gain, you must talk to your doctor. They may offer you individualized counsel and assistance.

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Additional Accutane Side Effects

Although Accutane does not frequently cause weight gain, people should be aware of several potential adverse effects. These consist of:

  • Dry skin
  • Damaged lips
  • Bleeding nose
  • Pain in the muscles
  • Sore joints
  • Painful headaches
  • Sight alters
  • Depressive disorder

What is the recommended dose of Accutane?

For less severe acne, a 10-mg Accutane treatment should last a month. Your doctor could recommend taking 20 mg/day of Accutane for three months if your acne is severe. You should abide by dermatological recommendations and take the suggested dose. Taking more than you should each day has adverse effects.

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Consultation with a Medical Professional

Speaking with your doctor if you are considering using Accutane is crucial. They may provide individualized guidance and assistance while assisting you in deciding whether the drug is the best choice. Additionally, speaking with your doctor if you encounter any adverse effects while taking Accutane is crucial.

FAQ’s

After ten to fifteen days of usage, Accutane begins to produce results. Because of this, using Accutane for three months will clean up your skin. However, avoid taking too much. If not, the acne will worsen.

The vitamin A derivative Accutane functions similarly to vitamin A in the body. A condition known as hypervitaminosis can thus develop if you take Accutane and consume extra vitamin A. As a result, it causes aches and cramps, skin irritation, and even visual difficulties.

You may seem more significant because of the effects of Accutane, which can promote swelling and inflammation in the body. Gaining facial fat is a transient side effect of Accutane, but. It is true that quitting Accutane and taking a few measures will help you lose this fat. Accutane long-term usage may result in facial fat that is irreversible.

A temporary or permanent alteration to hair may result from using Accutane for acne. For instance, it may result in hair loss and thinning hair. Additionally, it harms the hair shafts and follicles. As a result, its hair permanently thins. However, after discontinuing Accutane, hair often grows back.

the bottom line

Strong medicine like Accutane is beneficial in treating severe acne. Despite the medication’s possible negative impact, there isn’t concrete proof that Accutane causes weight gain. Any weight gain associated with Accutane is due to external factors such as eating or physical activity regimen modifications. You can maintain weight by following a wholesome diet, being active, and consulting your healthcare provider.

How we reviewed this article

Trend Of Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy

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