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How to Take Roaccutane Pills
It is essential to follow the dosage prescribed by the doctor, as the dosage varies from person to person based on weight. Here are the key tips for taking Roaccutane pills:
- It is recommended to take Roaccutane pills at the same time every day.
- Preferably, take the pill with or immediately after a meal that contains 20 grams or more of fat, as the medication is better absorbed with fat.
- Swallow the pill whole with a glass of water.
- If a dose is missed, take the pill as soon as you remember unless it is close to the time of the next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time, ensuring not to take two doses to make up for the missed one.
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Pregnancy Prevention Tips
Roaccutane can cause serious birth defects if taken by a pregnant woman. Therefore, it is essential to follow these tips:
- Use two effective forms of contraception at least one month before starting treatment, throughout the treatment period, and for at least one month after stopping treatment.
- Combine one of the following effective contraceptive methods: hormonal birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, or IUDs with a condom or cervical cap.
- Ensure to have two pregnancy tests before starting treatment with Roaccutane to confirm that you are not pregnant. The second test is recommended to be done 19 days after the first test.
- Conduct a pregnancy test every month during the use of the medication and one month after completing the treatment.
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Things to Consider During Treatment
The following should be considered when using Roaccutane pills:
- Avoid taking vitamin A supplements or any vitamins containing it during the treatment period unless directed by a doctor, as it increases the potential side effects.
- Consult a doctor if the skin does not improve within one to two months of starting treatment or if skin irritation becomes severe. Typically, the skin becomes irritated and acne worsens during the first three weeks of treatment but then starts to improve and continues to improve up to six months after stopping the treatment.
- Avoid donating blood throughout the treatment period and for 30 days after stopping it to prevent pregnant women from receiving blood that contains the medication.
Tips for Taking Roaccutane Pills: Managing Side Effects
Treatment with Roaccutane pills can cause a range of side effects and issues. Here are some tips for managing them:
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Tips for Managing Dry Skin
Dry skin, lips, mouth, and nose are common side effects of using Roaccutane pills. Although not harmful, they can be annoying and uncomfortable. Here are some tips for dealing with this issue:
- Make sure to moisturize the entire body or affected areas several times a day.
- Use oil-free emollients on acne-prone areas, such as the face, chest, and back.
- Keep the lips constantly moisturized throughout the day.
- Take short, cool baths and avoid using soap during bathing; instead, use emollients and moisturizers.
- Avoid dermabrasion or laser skin treatments during the treatment and for six months after finishing it.
- Remove body hair with a razor instead of waxing to prevent skin irritation.
- Use sugar-free candy or gum, dissolve ice chips in the mouth, or use a saliva substitute to temporarily relieve dry mouth.
- Use saline nasal spray and apply petroleum jelly to the nasal passages to alleviate nasal dryness and bleeding due to dry mucous membranes.
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Tips for Managing Eye Problems
Roaccutane can cause mild eye dryness, which may lead to blurred vision or decreased night vision. Here are some tips for dealing with these issues:
- Use artificial tears, especially if wearing contact lenses.
- Avoid driving or engaging in any potentially dangerous activities if vision is blurred.
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Tips for Managing Increased Sun Sensitivity
Roaccutane increases the skin's sensitivity to sunlight. Here are some tips for managing this issue:
- Use sunscreen daily and reapply it every four hours.
- Avoid direct sun exposure, especially between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., or excessive exposure to wind and cold weather, as the skin is more prone to burns, dryness, and irritation.
- Ensure to wear protective clothing and hats.
Finally, it is important to undergo a series of tests before starting Roaccutane treatment to ensure the body, especially the kidney and liver functions, is ready to handle the medication. This is part of what Blazma offers in their Roaccutane package, which requires fasting for several hours before the test.