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.
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