maggie354

Hello! I had RNY two years ago and now suffer from very bad acne. My dermatologist has put me on oral 40mg of Isotretinoin (accutane), but I’m worried about how it will be absorbed. Anyone had a similar experience and can share their experiences? Did accutane work? Was it successful post RNY? Thanks :-) Maggie (-231 lbs!!)

Yes - I’ve had all the hormone tests and they have all come back normal. My dermatologist believes that this cystic acne is not caused by hormone changes (which haven’t been evidenced through the tests I’ve had), and rather is a result of the B12 supplement and other dietary changes that have happened post op. My skin was fine before the surgery! Anyway, going to try the Isotretinoin (the brand is actually called Curacne, not Accutane, but it is the same active ingredient) for a month and if I feel the symptoms are too much, I’ll come off it :-)

Thank you so much for all your advice. My acne is quite severe cystic acne which developed post op, and more than anything it’s just really painful. I agree that my dermatologist has clearly never worked with anyone who has had gastric bypass, but she seems very competent and ready to help me. I’ve stopped taking my multi-vitamin because it contains vitamin A.... going to see if I can get an alternative multi-vitamin without vitamin A. I’ve also stopped taking B12 while on the treatment as it apparently is a root cause for acne development post-op. In terms of the depression/suicidal thoughts, my doctor said that apparently this is most common with teens. As the treatment is so commonly given to teens (and hormones are raging!), this is where the link to depression has been. I’m 30 so hoping it won’t effect me too much. Although, I have told my boyfriend that if I start to get usually moody/aggressive or if my personality changes, he needs to go to my doctor or my parents, and get me off the pills! I’ve been on the treatment since Sunday, so no real side effects now. When do you usually start to feel dry skin? Thanks again for all your advice :-)

Hi :-) I am 2 years post op RNY and want to start taking the birth control pill again. I’ve heard people say that taking the pill is not a good idea as it wouldn’t be absorbed. Does anyone have any experience with this? Would anyone suggest crushing the pill before taking it, for better absorption? Does crushing the pill mean it will be absorbed easier? Any advice/past experiences shared would be GREATLY appreciated!