Isotretinoin Concerns in Switzerland: A Student-Based Transversal Study

Background/Objectives: Concerns about isotretinoin may affect both initiation and adherence in acne patients. We conducted a student-based transversal study including participants with knowledge on isotretinoin to assess related concerns and factors as well as the impact of an isotretinoin fact sheet in a before-after design. To our knowledge, no such surveys have been published to evaluate such concerns. Method: An online questionnaire about isotretinoin treatment was distributed by social media. The impact of written information about isotretinoin was assessed. Results: A total of 528 participants had fulfilled inclusion criteria. Most participants (53.8%) reported having concerns about isotretinoin treatment, mainly about xerosis cutis, but also about depression. A total of 49.1% of participants with a history of isotretinoin treatment reported that these concerns affected their adherence to treatment. Participants mostly relied on information from relatives or acquaintances and treating physicians, while reading a text about isotretinoin did not affect their concerns (p = 0.22). Multivariable regression analysis demonstrated that female participants, pharmacy students, and subjects with a history of acne had higher isotretinoin concerns. Conclusions: Students in Switzerland were concerned about an isotretinoin treatment. Written information did not change their existing concerns. This study highlights the importance for more education regarding potential side effects of isotretinoin.