Accutane is prescribed to treat acne, but has been linked to depression and other psychiatric issues including over 250 suicides in the US. Accutane may cause decreased serotonin levels, which can lead to depression and aggressiveness.
In the late ’80s, Accutane went under fire due to the risk of birth defects, kidney, digestive tract, central nervous system, pancreas, cardiovascular, liver, and auto-immune system problems among others.
A study of the cellular effects of Accutane showed the relays between neurons in the brain (which are produced from serotonin) were disrupted.
Serotonin is a hormone found in the brain and other areas of the body and acts as a messenger, transmitting signals between nerve cells. Decrease in the serotonin levels in the brain have been linked to depression, bipolar disorder and anxiety disorders.
For more information on this subject, please refer to the section on Drugs, Medical Devices, and Implants.
