What Is Accutane / Isotretinoin?

Accutane is the trade name people often use to refer to isotretinoin, a powerful oral acne medication derived from vitamin A. It’s used when acne is:

• Severe or cystic
• Not responding to topical treatments or antibiotics
• Causing scarring or significant emotional impact

Isotretinoin works by dramatically reducing sebum (oil) production, shrinking oil glands, and preventing clogged pores — often leading to long-term remission after a full course.

In Korea, the original branded Accutane product may no longer be marketed, but generic isotretinoin prescriptions with the same active ingredient are widely available via dermatologist prescriptions. Reddit

How It Works in Seoul

📋 Prescription & Medical Supervision

In Seoul, isotretinoin is only available with a doctor’s prescription. You’ll typically go through:

1. Initial skin evaluation
   The dermatologist assesses your acne severity and medical history.
2. Blood work before starting
   Baseline tests like liver function and cholesterol are typically done due to the medication’s effects. For women of childbearing age, pregnancy testing and contraception counseling are important because of the high risk of birth defects if taken during pregnancy. Seoul Delight Dermatology Clinic+1
3. Monthly monitoring
   You return regularly (often every 4–6 weeks) to check progress and adjust dosage as needed. Blood tests may be repeated during the treatment. Seoul Delight Dermatology Clinic
4. Prescription issuance each month
   In Korea, prescriptions are usually written for a limited period (often 30 days), so monthly follow-ups are common.

Cost Expectations in Seoul

Costs vary by clinic and exact treatment plan but can include:

• Initial consultation: often in a low to moderate range
• Monthly prescription fee: typically affordable (can be a few ten-thousands of KRW per month)
• Medication cost: many isotretinoin generics are reasonably priced for a 30-day supply, depending on dosage and pharmacy choice doctornow
• Blood tests and follow-ups: additional costs for required monitoring.

Because isotretinoin treatment durations are usually several months, you should expect recurring monthly expenses for medical visits and tests.

Typical Treatment Duration

A full course usually lasts around 4–6 months but may be longer depending on acne severity and response. Regular monitoring throughout this period is standard practice. Seoul Delight Dermatology Clinic

Potential Side Effects & Considerations

Isotretinoin can be highly effective, but it has a strong side-effect profile, so close monitoring is important:

Common effects

• Dry skin, dry lips, dry eyes
• Skin sensitivity and peeling
• Changes in lipid levels or liver function tests

Serious considerations

• Not safe in pregnancy or when trying to conceive
• Requires strict birth control protocols if applicable
• Potential mood changes or other systemic effects in some patients

These risks are why medical supervision and regular tests are standard parts of treatment.

Who Might Consider It

Isotretinoin is typically recommended when:

• Acne is severe or cystic
• Other treatments (topical, oral antibiotics) fail
• Acne is significantly affecting quality of life

A dermatologist decides suitability based on clinical assessment and personal health factors.

Tips for Patients in Seoul

✔ Don’t self-prescribe: isotretinoin must be medically supervised in Korea.
✔ Plan for monitoring: attend monthly check-ins and labs.
✔ Manage dryness: moisturizers, lip balm, and eye drops are often necessary.
✔ Use contraception if relevant: strict prevention is key due to high teratogenic risk.