Can Isotretinoin Cause Sexual Dysfunction?

Posted on Tue, 21 Jun 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Tue, 21 Jun 2016 Answered on

Mon, 18 Jul 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Hi
I have some acne problems and went to my doctor for its treatment. the doctor prescribed SOTRET 10mg (isotretinion capsules). i read some side effects of isotretinion particularly loss in sexual desire and erectile dysfunction. does this drug really effects sexual performance ??

Answered by Dr. Asmeet Kaur Sawhney (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
It doesn't affect sexual performance

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Thanks for being at healthcaremagic
Isotretinoin is a very effective drug in the treatment of acne and I have prescribed it to hundreds of patients but I have never seen a patient complaining of sexual dysfunction after taking isotretinoin.
Sexual dysfunction might be one of the rarest side effects of isotretinoin mentioned theoretically but I have never seen a patient suffering from sexual dysfunction in clinical practice .
You can easily start with isotretinoin without worrying about these side effects.
Regards
Dr Asmeet

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad