Isotretinoin and Psychiatric Illness in Adolescents and Young Adults
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between isotretinoin and psychiatric illness in adolescents and young adults. DATA SOURCES: Primary literature located via MEDLINE (1966–December 2002). Key terms were isotretinoin, depression, psychosis, suicide, and adolescents. DATA SYNTHESIS: Information regarding depression was added to isotretinoin labeling in 1998 following a series of case reports and submitted to the MedWatch system. CONCLUSIONS: Although a causal relationship may exist between isotretinoin and psychiatric illness in adolescents and young adults, this has not been demonstrated in the literature. Until evidence establishes a presence or lack of causality, prescribers should exercise caution when treating adolescents and young adults with isotretinoin.