Isotretinoin: Risk or Benefit to Mental Health in Youth?

Isotretinoin is a medication for severe recalcitrant nodular acne and treatment-resistant forms of acne. Despite its effectiveness, adverse events have required U.S. Food and Drug Administration warning and close monitoring; psychiatric warnings include depression, psychosis, suicidal ideation, and suicide. However, longstanding concerns about psychiatric symptoms associated with isotretinoin have been called into question in recent literature. In addition, risk for psychological effects of acne have been recognized independent of treatment. Proper treatment of acne, coupled with mental health screening, provides the best course of action. [Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services, 60(2), 7-9.].