Quick Note: We are not doctors, and none of this is medical advice. This is simply a general article on the potential side affects when related to running but not a recommendation on what to do. Seek medical advice for specific questions on your situation.
Accutane, otherwise known as Isotretinoin, is a common drug used to treat acne. Like many medications, it presents a range of side effects that may impact athletic performance. Does Accutane affect running is a common question many runners have before deciding whether to use it.
There hasn’t been a huge amount of research conducted to determine the effects Accutane has on performance. However, many runners have documented their experiences when taking the drug. In most cases, it does appear to have some negative impact on performance due to the huge range of side effects it presents.
Taking Accutane won’t automatically compromise your performance, but it is a risk you need to be aware of. To find out whether it is likely to impact your running, you can seek advice from your doctor.
Does Accutane Affect Running?
Accutane is prescribed by doctors to treat severe acne, and it is known to cause a wide range of side effects. Some of these side effects include bone and muscular problems, which can have a significant impact on your running performance. Another common side effect of the drug is vision problems.
Bone and Muscular Side Effects
So how does Accutane affect running? The drug is known to cause bone and muscle pain, particularly in the lower back. A study published in 2020, revealed that lower back pain is particularly common in those taking Isotretinoin. This can understandably make it difficult to run.
Problems with Vision
Accutane is also known to cause issues with your vision. You may experience blurry, double, or tunnel vision, and in some cases the changes can be permanent. If you can’t see clearly, you are going to struggle to run, and it may also cause issues with balance.
Mobility Issues
Taking Accutane could result in issues getting around. If you experience bone and muscle pain or stiffness, you may find it difficult to run. Marathon runners are often advised not to run long distances while taking the drug. While mobility issues are uncommon, it is still something runners need to consider before taking the medication.
Headaches
Another uncommon side effect of Accutane that may impact your performance is headaches. They could be moderate or severe, making it difficult to run. In some cases, the headaches may be so intense they interfere with daily activities.
Stomach Pain
Stomach pain when taking Accutane is uncommon, but some runners have reported mild to severe pain in their abdomen. If stomach pain does develop, this will make it more difficult to run. You may miss sessions or experience significant pain while running.
These are just five ways Accutane can affect running. The list of potential side effects that you could experience is quite long, making it imperative to chat with your doctor prior to being put on the drug.
Does Accutane Make You Weaker?
Muscle weakness can be a serious side effect of Accutane. If you experience any weakness in the muscles, after taking the drug you should contact your doctor immediately. It could be a sign of permanent muscle damage, making it imperative to seek help quickly.
Although a rare side effect, Accutane can lead to drug-induced myopathy. This causes the muscles to become weaker, and it can also lead to myalgia, and higher CPK levels. As published in a 2016 case study, the drug can trigger acute severe myopathy.
So, while muscle weakness can occur when you take Accutane, it is thankfully a rare side effect. The main issue runners may have while taking the drug, is their muscles may get tired quickly. This can have a direct impact on performance. One way to help strengthen muscles if this is an issue is to run or walk with a weighted vest. The extra resistance helps develop the leg muscles and makes them stronger.
Does Accutane Cause Joint Pain?
Accutane is linked to pain in the bone, joints, ligaments, and muscles. Unlike muscle weakness, joint pain is a common side effect that many runners develop. While pain can develop anywhere in the body, back pain tends to be the most reported symptom.
If the joints are affected by the drug, you may find the aches and pains experienced after running are worse than usual. It can take longer for the muscles and joints to heal, and you may get injured more easily. This could mean you need to wait longer between running sessions to allow the body to recover.
Accutane can also cause bone pain, which is often felt both when you are active and when you are stationary. Bone pain is harder to treat, and it can significantly affect your ability to run.
Conclusion
So does Accutane affect running? It can cause a wide range of side effects which may impact your performance. The effects may last for a few months, or you may be stuck with them until you finish your course of treatment. If you are experiencing any symptoms that are affecting your running performance, speak to your doctor about the best ways to manage them.
