There are negative effects that can be caused by accutane. Included in these negative effects are the suicidal tendencies of the user, depression and other behavioral problems. Discontinuation of Accutane therapy may be insufficient to combat such psychiatric disorders, so it is important to recognize and understand their symptoms and warning signs.

Depression

Suicidal behavior can indeed be triggered by depression. Depression is characterized by symptoms including intense, persistent sadness; anxiety; loss of pleasure from usual activities; loss of energy; and others identified below. Clinical depression is seen to be a serious condition that can be caused by the use of accutane.

Symptoms Of Depression:

• Feeling of emptiness, anxiety and feeling helpless
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness or helplessness
• Loss of pleasure from activities that were once enjoyable
• Loss of energy
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
• Sleep pattern changes
• Change in appetite
• Physical problems that do not respond to treatment
• Restlessness
• Irritability

Causes Of Depression:

• Genetic predisposition
• Stress at home, work or school
• Loss of a parent or loved one
• Alcohol or substance abuse
• Breakup of a romantic relationship
• Medications

Mania

There are patients who are in between the system of being in mania and ein depressed. Symptoms of mania include:

• Excessive elation
• Increased energy and sexual desire
• Decreased need for sleep
• Racing thoughts and impaired judgment
• Increased talking
• Inappropriate behavior

Suicide

Suicide accounts for more than 30,000 American deaths each year. The third leading cause of death in the United States is suicide. This is after accident and death. Healthcare providers often miss the warning signs because patients may hide suicidal intent very successfully. In fact, 60% of people who commit suicide had seen a physician within 1 month of their deaths. 93% of the people who commit suicide have already been suffering depression.

There may be deliberate signs that a person is attempting to commit suicide. Every mention or discussion of “killing myself” should be treated with utmost seriousness.

It is important to note that depression itself is a major risk factor for suicidal behavior. When prescribing drug, the depression side effects should be considered before actually considering prescribing something with accutane. An association with Accutane should be considered in patients with signs and symptoms of depression, even in the presence of other life stressors. When the effects of Accutane have already set in, the intervention by discontinuation may not be enough for relief. It is also important to note that signs and symptoms of depression are not included in all reported cases of suicidal behavior. It is not known if this means the signs were masked by the patient, unrecognized by observers, or if the suicidal tendency arose impulsively. The patients have the right to informed consent. They should be informed on what possible effects they might get when they decide to consume accutane.