Accutane® and Mental Health: What You Should Know Before Starting
Accutane® (isotretinoin) is known for being one of the most effective acne treatments ever developed. For people struggling with severe, cystic, or treatment-resistant acne, it can feel like a miracle—clearing skin that no topical or antibiotic could touch. But while Accutane® has a long track record of delivering dramatic results, it also comes with a reputation for serious side effects, including those that affect mental health.
So how worried should you be about Accutane®’s psychological effects? Is there a real connection between isotretinoin and depression or anxiety? And what should you do if you’re considering this medication?
Let’s walk through what the research says, what to look out for, and how to stay safe if you or a loved one is using Accutane®.
WHAT IS ACCUTANE®?
Accutane® is the brand name for isotretinoin, a powerful oral retinoid originally developed in the 1980s. It works by shrinking the oil glands deep in the skin, reducing sebum production, calming inflammation, and preventing clogged pores—all core causes of acne.
Most people take Accutane® for 4–9 months. In many cases, one course is enough to clear even severe acne long term.
But because isotretinoin impacts the body systemically—not just the skin—it comes with a long list of potential side effects. These include very dry skin and lips, joint pain, and more rarely, effects on the liver, cholesterol, and mental health.
UNDERSTANDING ACCUTANE®’S PSYCHOLOGICAL SIDE EFFECTS
WHAT THE RESEARCH SAYS
There’s been a long-standing debate in dermatology about whether Accutane® causes psychological side effects like:
Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings
Irritability
Psychosis
Suicidal thoughts
Some early case reports and observational studies suggested a possible link. However, more recent, high-quality studies and systematic reviews have not confirmed a clear cause-and-effect relationship.
In fact, several large-scale studies have shown no increase in depression among Accutane® users. Some even suggest mental health improves during treatment, likely because the emotional toll of acne decreases as skin clears.
Still, individual experiences vary—and it’s clear that some people do report worsened mood, anxiety, or depression while taking Accutane®, even if we can’t say for sure that the drug is the direct cause.
POSSIBLE EXPLANATIONS
There are a few theories as to why some people might experience psychological changes on isotretinoin:
Retinoids and the brain: Accutane® is a form of vitamin A, and high doses of vitamin A can affect the central nervous system. Retinoid receptors are found in the brain, and isotretinoin may influence mood-regulating pathways.
The stress of side effects: Dry lips, nosebleeds, fatigue, and joint pain can affect daily comfort and mood.
Coincidence or correlation: Most people who take Accutane® are teens or young adults—the same age group most likely to experience the onset of mood disorders like depression or anxiety, regardless of medication.
WHO MAY BE MOST AT RISK?
Although we don’t fully understand who will experience psychological side effects, some groups may be more vulnerable:
People with a history of depression or anxiety
Those currently experiencing emotional stress
Clients with body dysmorphia or severe acne-related shame
People who feel isolated or unsupported during treatment
If you fall into one of these categories, it doesn’t mean you can’t take Accutane®—but it does mean you should go in with more caution and a strong support system in place.
SIGNS TO WATCH FOR
If you’re taking Accutane®, it’s important to monitor your mental health along the way. Watch for:
Sudden or worsening sadness
Loss of interest in things you normally enjoy
Trouble sleeping or eating
Panic attacks or increased anxiety
Irritability or anger outbursts
Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
These are serious symptoms, no matter what the cause, and should be discussed with your provider right away.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU’RE STRUGGLING MENTALLY ON ACCUTANE®
If you notice psychological side effects, here’s what you can do:
1. TALK TO YOUR DERMATOLOGIST IMMEDIATELY
They may recommend:
Lowering your dose
Taking a break
Discontinuing treatment
Referring you to a mental health professional
Most side effects improve once the medication is stopped.
2. CONNECT WITH A MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER
If you’ve ever struggled with depression or anxiety, it’s a good idea to check in with a therapist or psychiatrist before and during Accutane®. They can help you monitor changes in mood and navigate stress during treatment.
3. LET LOVED ONES KNOW WHAT YOU’RE TAKING
Give your friends, partner, or family a heads-up about potential side effects. Let them know you’d like their support in spotting mood changes and checking in with you along the way.
4. KEEP A MOOD JOURNAL
Writing down how you feel each day—both physically and emotionally—can help you catch patterns and communicate more clearly with your doctor.
ARE THERE ALTERNATIVES TO ACCUTANE®?
At CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers, we specialize in AviClear®, the first ever FDA-cleared laser treatment for acne that offers long-term results without medications or psychological side effects.
While Accutane® can be life-changing for the right person, not everyone wants to take the risk—especially when there are now options like AviClear® that:
Don’t affect hormones or brain chemistry
Don’t require blood tests
Don’t come with a list of side effects to manage
AviClear® is ideal for clients looking for lasting acne relief without going through a harsh or unpredictable medication process.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Accutane® can be a powerful tool for clearing severe acne—but it isn’t the right fit for everyone. If you or a loved one is considering isotretinoin, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits carefully, especially when it comes to mental health.
While most people don’t experience psychological side effects, some do. The key is staying informed, monitoring symptoms, and having a plan in place in case things change.
If you’re looking for a safer, medication-free solution that doesn’t come with mood-related risks, AviClear® may be a great option for you.
READY TO CLEAR YOUR SKIN–WITHOUT THE SIDE EFFECTS?
At CLEAR Acne Treatment Centers, we’ve helped hundreds of clients find lasting relief through AviClear® laser treatments. Whether you’ve tried Accutane® in the past or are exploring your options for the first time, we’re here to help.
🚀 Get your Treatment Estimate: https://www.clearacne.com/estimate
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