Isotretinoin-Induced Hypersomnia: A Cross-sectional Study and Literature Review

BACKGROUND Isotretinoin is an oral retinoic drug for severe resistant acne cases that has controversially been associated with multiple psychiatric adverse effects. Research has primarily focused on depression and suicidality; however, a few case studies reported hypersomnia and sleep changes after isotretinoin initiation. OBJECTIVE To assess sleep quality and measure rates of hypersomnia, depression, and anxiety in patients undergoing isotretinoin therapy. METHODS This cross-sectional study was conducted at outpatient clinics of the university hospital. The rate of self-reported oversleeping was measured. In addition, researchers used the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index to assess sleep quality and conducted semistructured clinical interviews to detect depression and anxiety. RESULTS Of 123 patients with acne on isotretinoin, 77 (62.6%) reported oversleeping. Nearly half (60 patients, 48.8%) were categorized as poor sleepers according to the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. The interviews revealed anxiety and depression percentages among 9.8% and 4.9% of participants, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Hypersomnia was noticeably high in this study sample; thus, it may cautiously suggest a possible link between isotretinoin and hypersomnia. However, more research is needed to investigate this potential relationship.