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Do Anti-depressants Prevent the Risk of Suicide While on Accutane?
asked 1 year ago by Laurel3936 in Laurel
Latest answer by Mary Lupo, MD
Question viewed 193 times
Tags: anti depressant, risk
My mom will not let me go on Accutane because of the suicide and depression risks. I currently suffer from clinical depression and am on medication for it. I want to go on Accutane for my acne, which has spread to my back and shoulders and has only gotten worse, despite trying many different cleansers and topical treatments from my dermatologist. If I am already taking anti-depressants, what is the risk of becoming suicidal while on Accutane?
2 answers to Do Anti-depressants Prevent the Risk of Suicide While on Accutane?
+1
A complex discussion
There have been several studies that show the incidence of depression and suicide in patients with acne who take Accutane is not higher than the incidence of depression and suicide in acne patient who NEVER took Accutane. In fact, many report depression improves when their acne gets better. I would say if your depression is under control, you have no suicide ideation, and if you live at home where your disposition and behavior can be monitored, you are likely safe. Discuss the...
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+1
Accutane and the risk of suicide
You ask a very difficult question. The ultimate decision as to whether the patient with depression will do OK on accutane needs to be made by a team of dermatologist, psychiatrist well familiar with the patient, and the patient or in case the patient is a minor, the team of patient and parents.
Antidepressants do not prevent suicide, whether on accutane or not. If you are feeling suicidal, you need to address it as soon as possible with your parents, your doctor and a...
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