Description
About Accufine 40 mg
Accufine 40 mg is a prescription soft capsule containing 40 mg of isotretinoin, made by Healing Pharma, India, used to treat severe, persistent or scarring acne that has not responded to other treatment. As the strongest capsule in the Accufine range, it is mainly used by adults with a higher body weight, usually after they have tolerated a lower starting dose.
Who is Accufine 40 mg suitable for?
Daily isotretinoin doses range from about 0.5 to 1 mg per kg. For someone weighing 90 kg, that is 45–90 mg a day, so a 40 mg capsule, alone or with another, cuts down the number of capsules needed. For anyone under about 40 kg, a daily 40 mg would already exceed the usual upper limit. Your dermatologist decides whether this strength is right; it is not a starting dose for most people.
How does isotretinoin work?
The medicine turns down oil production at its source, shrinking the glands and reducing sebum sharply. Follicles stay unblocked, acne bacteria decline and inflammation calms, so painful nodules and cysts gradually flatten and fewer new ones form.
How to take Accufine 40 mg
Swallow each capsule whole during a meal; do not crush, chew or open it. It can be taken once daily or split, for example one capsule with breakfast and one with dinner if you are prescribed 80 mg. Courses usually last 16–24 weeks. Keep taking it as directed even once your skin looks clearer, and never take extra capsules to catch up.
Managing dryness at higher doses
- Lips: apply a thick, bland balm many times a day, including at night.
- Nose: a little petroleum jelly inside the nostrils helps prevent nosebleeds.
- Eyes: use preservative-free lubricating drops, and consider glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Night driving: isotretinoin can reduce night vision, so take extra care after dark.
- Exercise: ease back on very strenuous training if muscles ache, and report severe muscle pain.
Pregnancy prevention
Isotretinoin is known to cause serious birth defects. People who can become pregnant may only take it within a pregnancy prevention program (UK Pregnancy Prevention Program; iPLEDGE in the US), which normally requires two effective methods of contraception starting one month before, continuing during and for one month after treatment. A negative pregnancy test is needed before starting, then monthly, and again after the course. Do not breastfeed during treatment.
Serious side effects
Besides the usual dryness, joint pain and sun sensitivity, higher doses bring a greater chance of raised blood fats and liver enzymes, which your blood tests will track. Mood changes, including depression and suicidal thoughts, have been reported; tell your doctor straight away if you or people close to you notice a change. Sexual side effects, such as reduced libido or erection problems, have also been described. Get urgent help for a severe headache with blurred vision, intense abdominal pain, yellowing eyes or a severe rash.
Who should not take it?
Do not take Accufine 40 mg if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have severe liver disease, very high blood lipids or excess vitamin A, or are allergic to isotretinoin or soya. Avoid tetracyclines and vitamin A supplements, and limit alcohol. Blood donation is not allowed during treatment and for one month after, and waxing, laser or dermabrasion should wait until six months after you finish.
Pack sizes
Strips of 10 soft capsules, available in packs of 100, 200 or 300, from $98. Store in a cool, dry place away from light.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start straight on 40 mg?
Usually not; many courses begin on Accufine 20 mg or lower and increase once side effects are known.
Can a dose combine two strengths?
Yes, if prescribed. For example, 50 mg could be one 40 mg capsule with one Accufine 10 mg.
Where can I compare the other strengths?
Visit the Accufine range or the full acne category.
General information only; always follow your specialist’s instructions. Accufine 40 mg is a prescription medicine for use under dermatologist supervision.
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