Isotretinoin therapy and depression – evidence for an association

Abstract

AbstractObjectives: The object of this paper is to evaluate the evidence suggesting an association between the use of the anti-acne agent isotretinoin and the subsequent development of depression.Method: Three case histories of individuals who had received treatment with isotretinoin and subsequently developed depression are reviewed.Results: All three individuals were noted to have a depressive illness which was notable by the prominence of symptoms of irritability, agitation and aggression.Conclusions: The indications from the three cases described suggest that there appears to be an association between depression and the recent use of isotretinoin. This may relate to the ability of isotretinoin to simulate hypovitaminosis A, with aggression, irritability and depression as a direct result of this effect. Young males may be particularly prone to developing this response.