From the Research
There are no known significant interactions between Accutane (isotretinoin), Abilify (aripiprazole), and Zoloft (sertraline) that would prevent their concurrent use, but careful monitoring is crucial due to their potential effects on mental health, as reported in a study published in 2021 1. When considering the use of these medications together, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks and benefits. Accutane has been associated with depression and mood changes in some patients, while Abilify and Zoloft are specifically used to treat various psychiatric conditions.
- Key points to consider:
- Monitor for new or worsening mood symptoms, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavior changes, and report them to your healthcare provider immediately.
- Accutane requires strict pregnancy prevention measures due to its severe risk of birth defects.
- Regular blood tests are typically required to monitor liver function and lipid levels.
- The combination might also increase sensitivity to sunlight, so sun protection is advisable.
- Always take these medications exactly as prescribed and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure safe and effective treatment, as suggested by a study published in 2019 2. Additionally, a review of the current literature regarding the association of isotretinoin with depression and suicide found that some people might be at risk, particularly those with a personal or family history of mental disorder, but further studies are needed to identify those patients who would benefit from an early referral to a mental health professional when isotretinoin is initiated, as reported in a study published in 2018 3.
- Important considerations:
- Clinicians should be careful about psychiatric side effects in patients using isotretinoin.
- Further studies with a larger number of cases and with a longer follow-up period are needed to investigate the complex effects of isotretinoin on the central nervous system.
- A study published in 2015 found that isotretinoin may have an antidepressant impact, according to some dermatological papers, which consider treating acne with this efficient treatment could improve self-image and make the patient feel better 4.