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A member asked:
Why do dermatologists support the use of isotretinoin despite the controversial side effects it allegedly causes (depression, suicide ideation...)?
4 doctors weighed in across 2 answers
Its not 1st line: Isotretinoin or accutaine is a medication that has a profound effect on acne lesions. There are indeed some adverse side effects however these can be diminished with careful choice of patient and close observation. The majority of acne is treated with simple benzoyl peroxide , topical retanoids, exfoliation and oral/topical antibiotic. The ues of accutaine is only reserved for difficult cases.
Answered 6/26/2014
4.2k views
Causaility unclear: There is some controversy on this topic. There is some data showing an actual reduced rate of suicidal acts in patients treated when compared to the control cohort (age/demographics) who are not treated with this medicine. Case reports and anecdote are important, but eventually the science has to be done to dissociate correlation / association versus causality.
Answered 4/14/2016
4.2k views
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I am depressed, it's been a year since my face is breaking out continuously hav tried been to, homeopathic and dermatologists nothing works :'(?
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I'm having a severe problem with acne I've tried everything and nothing is working also I have been to the dermatologist and itdidn'tworkI'm depressed?
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Dear doctor, My dermatologist prescribed me 20 mg isotretinoin and a tretinol cream. I have sensitive skin, can i still use them together? Thank you, K?
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Good evening my 23yr old daughter has fine and big pimples along her cheekbones .Have tried face washes and creams .I took her today to the dermatologist who put her on Oratane.Worried about the depression as side effect..has mild depression.Suggest?
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