Can Accutane Cause Constipation?

Constipation is reported with oral isotretinoin

Constipation appears among reported gastrointestinal effects of oral isotretinoin. The label does not say how often it occurs.

MedlinePlus describes constipation as passing stool less often than usual. Stool may become hard, dry, and difficult to pass.

General guidance names several contributing factors

MedlinePlus says some medicines and even some vitamins can make a person constipated. It also names insufficient fiber, water, or exercise and putting off a bathroom trip despite the urge.

General self-care includes water, fiber, activity, and responding to the urge

For general constipation self-care, MedlinePlus says to exercise regularly, drink more water, eat more fiber, and go to the bathroom when the urge occurs rather than waiting or holding it.

Discontinue isotretinoin for three specified symptoms

Discontinue isotretinoin capsules immediately for abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or severe diarrhea. This instruction applies only to those three symptoms.

Constipation itself is a reported effect, while immediate discontinuation is tied specifically to abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, or severe diarrhea. The constipation listing alone does not carry that discontinue instruction.