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Accutane and Depression
Accutane is a drug that is commonly prescribed for severe
acne and other skin problems. It is normally reserved for
patients whose acne has not responded to other forms of treatment,
such as antibiotics. Accutane, also known as isotretinoin,
is a form of vitamin A. It helps those who have acne by decreasing
the amount of oil produced by the sebaceous glands and increasing
the skin renewal rate.
Considered the biggest breakthrough in acne drug treatment
over the last 20 years, Accutane is the only drug that
has the potential to clear severe acne permanently after
one course of treatment. One course, which is typically
five months, results in prolonged remission of acne
in up to 85 percent of patients. A member of a class
of drugs known as retinoids, Accutane is highly effective.
But it doesn't work for everyone, and some patients
need more than one course of treatment.
FDA approved Accutane in 1982, and since then, about 5 million
people in the United States and 12 million worldwide have
been treated with it, according to its manufacturer, Hoffmann-La
Roche of Nutley, N.J. The number of patients taking the drug
has increased, and half are females, most of whom are in their
childbearing years (age 15-44). Because of concern about the
drug's risks, FDA continues to evaluate Accutane and work
with the manufacturer to maximize safe use of the drug.
Accutane has been shown to have several serious side effects.
Among these is the drug's apparent connection to depression
and suicidal behavior in some patients who are taking or have
recently taken Accutane. Patients are warned at the onset
of their treatment that "Accutane may cause depression,
psychosis and, rarely, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts,
and suicide. Discontinuation of Accutane may be insufficient."
While it is unclear exactly why Accutane causes some patients
to develop mental problems, the fact that it can have severe
side effects is unavoidable.
Accutane and Depression
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