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After reading this thread, as well as that long list of side effects, I think I personally would prefer to have acne. The side effects seem MUCH worse (rectal bleeding, seizures, joint and back pain, etc.) than acne. True, I'm lucky to have never had problems with acne. But do ProActiv and Dermafina not work? Is there really no other way?

For legal reasons, the drug companies have to list every possible side-effect, no matter how improbable.

I think joint pain may be the most common side effect you mentioned but rectal bleeding and seizures are really rare. I had one nose bleed, really chapped lips and very dry skin for a few months afterwords. My skin stabilized about a month after I completed the course and I have had no other side effects.

The next time you get a presecription filled, read the insert about the drug...many many side effects are listed that are possible but not probable.

If you have skin problems or want a great exfoliation: take six uncoated aspirin tablets, dissolve them in a table spoon of hot water, use as a mask for about five minutes and wash off. Very effective. Very cheap.