It really surprised me how much it had an effect on my running. I was doing 5 mile runs for a while and the joint pain is real, though there are things you can do to help stay on top of it that make running a lot more bearable. Can you exercise on Accutane (isotretinoin)? Learn how isotretinoin affects muscles, joints, and workout recovery, plus clinician-backed guidance on safe… Accutane can present some challenges when it comes to staying active in sports. First and foremost, the medication is known for causing muscle and joint pain, which could potentially hinder your performance or enjoyment of the game. Being proactive about these side effects is key. I was able to run normally for the first month, but the side effects eventually caught up to me. I went from comfortably running 50 miles a week to struggling running 30 miles a week. Accutane could potentially decrease athletic performance, especially if you start experiencing side effects such as joint pain, frequent headaches, as well as other discomforts such as dry eyes. Accutane can cause muscle soreness, joint pain, and fatigue, which may reduce endurance and physical performance. It’s important to listen to your body and adjust your workout intensity accordingly to prevent injury and overexertion. Some patients report reduced endurance during exercise, particularly with higher-intensity or longer sessions. Slower recovery between workouts may result from muscle soreness, fatigue, or joint stiffness. These performance changes are usually temporary and improve after isotretinoin treatment ends. Accutane is a retinoid, not an antibiotic, and retinoids dry you out like crazy. Make sure you drink plenty of water and avoid running outside if it’s sunny or hot to prevent dehydration. I took Accutane in high school many years ago, during my junior year and it effected my running. At the end of easy paced long runs, I'd fall over in pain due to joint swelling. I also ran. Some users have shared that Accutane negatively impacted their running, resulting in muscle tightness and longer recovery times from workouts, leading them to shift to low-impact exercises like swimming.