Does Isotretinoin (Accutane) cause depression?

First, Accutane is an excellent medication for severe acne leading to permanent clearance of acne in 90% of patients.  There is controversy about the potential for Accutane to cause depression.  Thus far, studies have debunked the claim that Accutane causes depression.  In fact, a 2017 study in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology showed an improvement in depression for patients on Accutane.  While I always monitor Accutane patients for depression, I have found that these patients have a much happier demeanor as soon as Accutane starts clearing their skin.