Roaccutane-Isotretinoin and Depression - Essay Example

All the sources were generally accessed through the library catalogs and online search engines randomly, with their selection guided by relevance to the isotretinoin–depression link. The purposes of these studies and their problems were ascertained, by noting down their findings. A reflective summary is included on clinical implications in the literature portion. The general finding of these studies on the dangerous side effects of isotretinoin use regarding psychiatric side effects including depression is inconclusive. The main issue raised is the required number of subjects tested. As large as 8000 subjects would need for a tenable methodology in research as suggested by the British Association of Dermatologists.

Connected with this problem is the number of volunteers willing to be tested, considering that the drug is risky. Nevertheless, based on adverse reports, it is still recommended that prescribers follow precautions sent out by the Food and Drug Administration on this drug. The concern for knowing whether isotretinoin and depression are linked rise from several adverse drug reaction reports (ADRs) received by health authorities, no less than the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the manufacturer of the drug involved.

The highly published accounts of suicides committed by young people add to the ever-growing need for looking into this problem. Literature abounds regarding this supposition and research has been conducted to this end. To this day, there is much to be confirmed by way of collating these reports and coming up with a converged position. Acne, for which isotretinoin is usually taken is commonly associated with shame, embarrassment, social assertiveness, and self-confidence. Acne is an adolescent is associated with socialization, appearances in public, interaction with strangers, and even reduced employment opportunities (Tan 2004).

As such, seeking treatment involves having access to the best there is. However, what is being bruited about as an excellent drug for healing is equally, if not more, being blamed for the demise of some. It is necessary that what should heal should not also put one's health at risk. Isotretinoin has been serving a lot of good to those with acne but has also been receiving several ADRs in recent years (Schulte 2005). This study looks into possible links between Isotretinoin and depression.

Acne Acne is a disorder of the sebaceous follicles or ducts located on the face, chest, and back. They consist of sebaceous (secreting oil) glands associated with small hair follicles. (Cunliffe 1994). It is important to ensure that patients know that their acne is taken seriously and to reassure them that acne is treatable. The fact that it is a slow-responding disorder should be stressed to patients (Ibid). Healey and Simpson (1994) identify three aims of treatment to prevent scarring, limit the duration of the disease and reduce the impact of psychological stress.

They emphasize that early treatment and regular review are necessary to prevent scarring.