What are the side effects of accutane?

I'm a 31 year old male and I've been on Accutane for about 5 months
now. I was on it as a teenager once as well. My doctor told me I
could cut back to 3 times a week and continue on that for a few
months. He said he has some patients who have been taking it for
years, like one pill per week. Is that safe? I understand you're
only supposed to take it for 6 months. He said one pill a week isn't
going to hurt. The only flare ups I've had since I cut back my dosage
is a few boil outbreaks on my back. I'm using Icthammol ointment
(20%) and that seems to help (but it stinks). I'm also taking Clomid
(Clomiphene Citrate) to boost my testosterone and Arimidex to keep my
estradiol (estrogen) down for helping me try to get my wife pregnant.
I've been on those for about 8 months! The accutane makes me feel
kinda bummed out but I wouldn't consider it 'depressed'. The dry lips
and nose and skin has completely gone away. My face is clear as can
be. I love it!

Dys <dys.DeleteThis@nowhere.com> wrote in message news:<Xns93E0DC7E6A6A5Dys.DeleteThis@207.217.77.202>...
> Ok, first, the best website for you to research Accutane is
> http://www.ragforum.com read through their posts and that will answer
> 99% of your questions/fears/concerns. Second, the side effects (I'm
> currently in month 2 40mg a day) differ from person to person. Expect
> very very chapped lips, expect some redness (mild/extreme depending on
> your body). Personally I've had 90% of all the side effects that are
> known, thats why I'm back down to 40mg, I was at 70mg a day but the side
> effects were too severe for me. On the depression issue, I was and
> always have been depressed. However, after being on the 'tane for 2
> months, my depression has gotten considerably worse. Again, this varies
> from person to person so chill, don't get too worried. If I had to deal
> with every side effect for 5 more months I will. I'll to go to hell and
> back to get rid of this acne and when your on Accutane, thats generally
> what it's like.
>
> But it's the best stuff out there and it will work if you can stick with
> it. Just make sure to get those monthly blood tests, that will save your
> life if you liver gets all crazy.