A few people have even more serious side effects. If they aren't treated, the problem could last forever. Your skin might go on getting better even after you stop taking isotretinoin. Most of the side effects of isotretinoin go away in a few days or weeks after you stop taking isotretinoin. If your side effects last more than a few weeks after you stop taking isotretinoin, talk to your doctor.
Some patients have to take isotretinoin more than one time.
If you need to take isotretinoin again, you can start taking it again 8 to 10 weeks after your first treatment is over. Do not give blood for at least one month after you stop taking isotretinoin. Isotretinoin causes severe birth defects, including malformation of the head and face, mental retardation and severe internal defects of the brain, heart, glands and nervous system. It can also cause miscarriage, premature birth and death of the fetus. You must use two forms of birth control at the same time for at least one month before you start taking isotretinoin and for all the time you are taking this medicine.