Isotretinoin, Informed Consent, and Medication-Induced Toxicity
A recent feature by RxISK presents a striking contrast.
Viewers first see a promotional video produced about isotretinoin, focused on benefits. RxISK then recreates that same format and structure — but highlights what is often minimized or omitted: reports of mental health problems, suicidality, and persistent sexual dysfunction associated with the drug. These adverse effects have nothing to do with the patient’s underlying mental health or situational life challenges.
RxISK refers to these harms as medication-induced toxicity — adverse effects that can alter lives.
Patients and families deserve clear information about all significant risks, especially when medications have been linked to severe psychiatric reactions, including akathisia.
We encourage healthcare providers, consumers and caregivers to watch both videos and consider what meaningful information should be provided about medication risks prior to prescribing.
Read and watch here: https://rxisk.org/isotretinoin-and-consent/.