Accutane and depression update

Accutane has an amazing benefit in treating severe acne — the acne that, for many people, seems untreatable. Too many acne patients who've used Accutane and watched their skin clear up from even the most severe of acne breakouts, Accutane is a magic drug! Many myths surround the use of Accutane and how it affects a person's well-being.

A new study published in June 2017 gives us new insights about how, or if, Accutane has any link to depression. Read on for more information!

Studies have evaluated Accutane's (Isotretinoin's) possible association with depression since 1983. Although one study found a statistically significant association between Accutane treatment and depression, dermatologists with experience in acne treatment have often doubted the link.

It's also essential to note that severe acne, whether or not someone is taking anti-acne medication or using topical treatments, can be a reason for depression. Acne can significantly affect a person's confidence.

A recent analysis of 31 studies published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology examined the link between a person's Accutane treatment for acne and if they suffer from depression. Combining the data of 1411 patients with acne, the researchers of this analysis found NO significant association between Accutane acne treatment and depression.

In reality, they found that the treatment of acne was associated with improved symptoms of depression. The prevalence of depression was significantly lower after Accutane treatment. The authors concluded that patients with acne are more prone to depression. Treatment of acne, including treatment with Accutane, can improve a person's skin and subsequently reduce the depression and stress that is so often associated with untreated acne.

Here's our source for this information and this new study about the link (Or lack thereof) between Accutane and depression: J Am Acad Dermatol. 2017 Jun;76[6]:1068-76.

More references:

1. AlGhamdi KM, Moussa NA. The relationship between isotretinoin and depression: a review of the literature. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb). 2017 Mar;7(1):47-59.
2. Lee SY, Jamal MM, Nguyen ET, Bechtold ML, Nguyen DL. Does exposure to isotretinoin increase the risk of depression, anxiety, and suicide? A comprehensive review of the literature. J Clin Gastroenterol. 2016 Apr;50(4):286-94.
3. Nakhla N, Khan NA, Qiu Y, Nesbitt R, Alhusayen R. Isotretinoin use and the risk of depression and suicide: a review of the literature. J Cutan Med Surg. 2015 Mar-Apr;19(2):204-9.
4. Azoulay L, Blais L, Koren G, LeLorier J, Berard A. Isotretinoin and the risk of depression in patients with acne vulgaris: a case-crossover study. J Clin Psychiatry. 2008 Dec;69(12):1963-9.

To find the right acne treatments for your unique skin, take the free skin assessment by clicking here.