I have been on accutane 3 times and have developed accutane…

Question

Answer 1

Answered in 2 hours by:

6/12/2012

Mental Health Professional: Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness replied 10 years ago

Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness

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Bill :

Hello- Thank you for asking the question. I have over 30 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families & am happy to reply.

Bill :

This is a very interesting question and has been the subject of much study and research.

Bill :

Although there is no question that people have suffered depression after taking this medication, there as yet to repeated studies that directly link this medication to depression.

Bill :

Many case studies have found a potential connection between Accutane use and psychiatric disorders, and some studies have found Accutane causes depressive behavior in mice. Depression occurred in some people with no prior history of the disorder. Other patients had factors, such as substance abuse, a family history, or stressful events in their lives, which may have contributed to their depression.

Some Accutane users found that their symptoms of depression resolved once they stopped using the drug, and came back when it was reinstated. It should be noted, however, that depression and suicidal behavior persisted in some cases, even after the patient quit using isotretinoin.

Researchers at the University of Bath, UK believe Accutane may disrupt the way serotonin is made and utilized by the body. Low levels of serotonin have been linked to depression,bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, and aggression. Their research identifies a possible mechanism for the link between depression and isotretinoin.

Why the Controversy?

While countless case reports suggest a relationship between Accutane use and depression, proving this connection has been difficult. Some studies suggest acne itself is more likely to cause depression in sufferers than Accutane use. Others have found no definitive link between Accutane use and an increased risk of depression.

Many acne sufferers find they are depressed because of their acne, and isotretinoin helps to clear their skin, making them feel less depressed and more confident.

Bill :

Source: http://acne.about.com/od/acnetreatments/a/sideeffectsaccu.htm

Bill :

As to the long term affects of this medication on the Brain or Neurological System, there has been considerable research with one study (attached below) suggesting some association with decreased brain metabolism in the orbitofrontal cortex, a brain area known to mediate symptoms of depression.

Bill :

http://www.accutaneaction.com/Studies/2005.Bremner.pdf

Bill :

This study as others called for increased research to discern further information.

Bill :

I trust that this has helped and that anything specific to your unique medical needs will be addressed with your Doctor, who knows you best,

Bill :

If you have additional questions for me, feel free to ask and I will be happy to reply.

Bill :

Otherwise, I wish you the best of Health.

Bill :

Bill

Bill :

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Answer 2

Mental Health Professional: Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness replied 10 years ago

Tara-
There is NO research to suggest that there are permanent long term effects with this medication. Numerous studies have been conducted and although some touches on some neurological problems, none rise to a level that say conclusively that this is something that causes any type of long term brain or nervous system damage.
As to how long this medication remains in your body>?
After last use- about 18-20 HOURS.
Therefore, is you are not using this medication and still have depression, it is most likely NOT related to this medication.
Most studies have indicated that the likelihood for many who feel the medication caused depression were pre-disposed to depression before taking the medication.
Again, this is information you want to address with your Doctor if you have ongoing depression.
I trust that this helps and answers your question.
The best of health to you.
Best, Bill

Answer 3

Mental Health Professional: Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness replied 10 years ago

There is no conclusive research to suggest any permanent Neurological damage(or orbitofrontal cortex)
Half-life means the time that half of the medication is eliminated from your bloodstream(or peak concentration before) elimination- all of a dosage would be eliminated from the body within another 5 - 8 hours.
see:http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/archives/fdaDrugInfo.cfm?archiveid=8655
I trust this has answered your question and wish you the best of health.
Bill

Answer 4

Mental Health Professional: Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness replied 10 years ago

I know that exercise nutrition etc are all good for health.
See: http://helpguide.org/topics/brain_body_fitness.htm
As to 5-HTP all I can say is find a trusted Brand. Their can me poor concentrations made- Speak to a chemist/pharmacist in your area for best recommendations.
Only advanced imaging techniques i.e. MRI, PET Scan etc can determine if you have atrophy in your brain.
Best, Bill

Answer 5

Mental Health Professional: Bill, LCSW, Consultant, Expert Witness replied 10 years ago

Hi Tara-
I know it can be confusing however, sometimes it is after multiples doses (that could vary significantly among individuals) of this medication that a depression cab evolve, as such there would be overall larger plasma concentrations in the blood.
Many studies have show that people pre-disposed to depression became depressed when taking the med but would have become depressed anyway
Acutane induced or any depresion induced by a medication is can be like normal depression as symptoms are the same.
I am giving you the link that explains everything about Acutane induced Depression- research etc.
Also one that addresses depression
Accutane:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Isotretinoin
Depression:
http://www.webmd.com/depression/default.htm
This should give you all the information you need.
All the best, Bill

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