Forum: Dermatology Support Forum

Topic: Accutane from Canada - Is it Safe?

SunlitSkincare: I've been dealing with severe acne for years now, and my dermatologist has suggested trying Accutane. However, the cost here in the US is astronomical! I stumbled upon a Canadian pharmacy online that sells Accutane at a much lower price. Has anyone tried this before? Is it safe to get medication from Canada?

DrSmoothie: Hello SunlitSkincare,Firstly, I commend you for considering all your options. It's important to understand the risks and benefits associated with any treatment, especially one as powerful as Accutane.

Before proceeding further, let�s clarify a few key points:

  1. Quality Control: Canadian pharmacies are generally reputable and have stringent quality control measures in place. However, importing medication from another country can sometimes lead to issues.

  2. Legal Considerations: It's important to check if what you�re doing is legal in your region. In the US, there may be restrictions on importing medications.

  3. Medical Supervision: Even if you decide to go ahead with purchasing from a Canadian pharmacy, it�s crucial to ensure you still receive medical supervision throughout your treatment.

Would love to hear more about your specific situation and any concerns you might have!

SunlitSkincare: Thanks for the quick response DrSmoothie! I did some research online regarding quality control in Canada, and it seems pretty solid. But my main concern is whether it's really worth taking this route if there are risks involved.

I�m definitely worried about legal issues too, but as long as the medication itself is safe to use and effective, that�s a big plus for me.

Also, I am planning on keeping in close contact with my dermatologist even if I do decide to go ahead with getting the medication from Canada. Is there anything else you would recommend considering?

DrSmoothie: Great approach SunlitSkincare!

Here are some additional points to consider:

  1. Consultation: Make sure your dermatologist is aware of all your plans, including where you intend to purchase Accutane from. They can provide invaluable advice tailored specifically to your case.

  2. Monitoring Side Effects: Since you�re still planning on regular consultations with your doctor, this is a great way to keep track of any side effects that may arise during the course of treatment. Accutane comes with potential serious side effects, so monitoring them closely is crucial.

  3. Brand vs Generic: If purchasing from Canada, ensure it�s a reputable brand or an FDA-approved generic equivalent if available in your region.

  4. Alternative Treatments: Lastly, discuss alternative treatments that might be less expensive yet equally effective for your condition. Sometimes other medications or treatment plans can provide similar results at lower costs.

In summary, while purchasing medication from Canada could potentially save you money, it�s essential to weigh all the factors carefully and ensure safety remains a top priority. Stay in close contact with your dermatologist throughout this process!

SunlitSkincare: That's really helpful information DrSmoothie! I think I'll talk more with my doctor about these points before making any decisions.

Thanks again for taking the time to share such valuable insights!

DrSmoothie: You're very welcome SunlitSkincare. It�s great that you�re being thorough and cautious. Always remember, your health should be your top priority! Good luck with your decision-making process and feel free to reach out if you have more questions.