Study shows link between acne drug and depression

The study carried out by the University of Bath and the University of Texas demonstrated that the drug could lead to depressive behavior in mice.

Scientists gave Roaccutane to mice over a period of six weeks, and then monitored the rodents' behavior. They found that while there was no change in the physical abilities of the mice, the rodents spent significantly more time immobile in a range of laboratory assessments designed to test their stress responsiveness.

“Without more research it is difficult to say for sure whether the same link applies to people taking the drug,” said Dr Sarah Bailey from the Department of Pharmacy & Pharmacology at the University of Bath. “However, establishing a link between the active molecules within the drug and a change in depression-related behavior, albeit in mice, is an important step forward in our understanding of the effects of this drug in the wider context of brain function.”

Roaccutane has consistently been linked to reports of depression and suicidal behavior since its launch in the early 1980s. Following a request of the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Authority in 1998, Roche included a warning in the drug's information leaflet that taking the medication may cause depression, psychosis and suicidal behavior.

Roaccutane belongs to a group of medicines called retinoids. Previously scientists thought retinoids were only important in the development of the nervous system.

The University of Bath commented that this study indicated that retinoids could affect brain function and could potentially be used in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and schizophrenia.