Suicide, depression, and isotretinoin: Is there a causal link?

This paper examines the existing literature and MedWatch reports concerning a proposed relationship between isotretinoin and depression and suicide. T he authors provide a brief overview of the biology of isotretinoin and depr essive disorder and find no basis for a putative molecular mechanism linkin g the two. They also address the complexities of Substance-Induced Mood Dis order (SIMD)asa psychiatric diagnosis and its relevance to isotretinoin. Ba sed on this review, the authors conclude that there is no evidence to suppo rt a causal connection between isotretinoin and major depression Or suicide , because reported cases do not meet the established criteria for causality , The authors also conclude, however, that it is important for dermatologis ts to be aware of the risk factors for suicide and to monitor patients who exhibit depressive symptoms.