Accutane Mood Changes: What You Need to Know About Depression and Anxiety Risks
When you take Accutane, a powerful acne medication also known as isotretinoin, used for severe cystic acne that doesn’t respond to other treatments. Also known as isotretinoin, it works by shrinking oil glands and clearing skin—but for some, it also changes how the brain processes emotions. The link between Accutane and mood changes isn’t speculation. Studies from the 1990s to today show a small but real group of users report increased sadness, irritability, or even thoughts of self-harm. It doesn’t happen to everyone, but if you’re on this drug, you need to know the signs—and what to do next.
Accutane doesn’t cause depression in most people, but it can trigger it in those already at risk. If you’ve had anxiety, depression, or a family history of mental illness, your chances go up. The drug affects serotonin and other brain chemicals tied to mood, and that shift can be subtle. Maybe you used to enjoy hanging out with friends, but now you cancel plans. Maybe you’re crying over small things, or can’t sleep even when exhausted. These aren’t just "bad days." They’re red flags. And they’re not something to push through. The FDA and multiple medical journals have warned about this for decades. You’re not overreacting if you feel off—it’s a known side effect, and it’s treatable if caught early.
What’s often missing in these conversations is how to respond. Stopping Accutane isn’t always the answer—some people’s acne comes back worse. But ignoring mood shifts is dangerous. Talk to your doctor before you start, not after you feel terrible. Keep a mood journal. Tell someone you trust what you’re taking. Don’t wait for a crisis. And if you’re already on it and feeling worse, don’t wait for your next appointment. Call your prescriber today. There are alternatives: topical retinoids, antibiotics, hormonal treatments, even laser therapy. You don’t have to suffer through bad skin and bad mental health.
Below, you’ll find real stories and science-backed advice from people who’ve walked this path. Some found relief by switching meds. Others learned to manage symptoms without quitting. A few had to stop entirely—and lived to see their skin clear anyway. This isn’t about fear. It’s about awareness. You deserve clear skin. But you also deserve peace of mind. Let’s make sure you get both.
