Can Accutane Affect Your Sex Drive or Cause ED?

Accutane (also called isotretinoin) is a powerful prescription medicine used to treat severe acne. For many people, it works when nothing else has. It helps clear up stubborn breakouts and can prevent acne scars.

Like all medications, Accutane comes with side effects. The most common ones include dry skin, chapped lips, and sensitivity to the sun. But some people have shared other concerns, like changes in sex drive, vaginal dryness, or even erectile dysfunction (ED).

In this blog, we’ll break down what we know about Accutane and sexual side effects. We’ll cover ED, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, and what to do if you’re experiencing these symptoms.

Can Accutane Cause Erectile Dysfunction or Loss of Libido?

Some people taking Accutane have reported changes in their sex life—like trouble getting or keeping an erection, or feeling less interested in sex. This raises important questions such as “Can Accutane cause erectile dysfunction?” or “Does Accutane lower your sex drive?”

While definitive scientific proof is limited, a few studies and regulatory safety updates highlight a possible connection:

Clinical case series – In one small study, six men taking Accutane reported erectile difficulties along with mood changes during therapy (Tirado Sánchez & León Dorantes, 2006).

UK regulator update – In 2017, the UK’s Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) added “erectile dysfunction” and “decreased libido” to its Drug Safety Update for isotretinoin, noting the events are rare.

Health Canada review – In 2024, Reactions Weekly summarized Health Canada’s assessment, which likewise described a potential link between isotretinoin and sexual dysfunction, including ED (Health Canada safety summary, 2024).

Australian regulator update – In April 2025, Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) issued new label warnings for isotretinoin, listing erectile dysfunction, decreased libido, and vulvovaginal dryness among “sexual disorders” that prescribers should monitor (TGA Medicines Safety Update, 2025).

Comprehensive scoping review – A 2024 analysis of 55 studies (Tan et al.) found no clear, consistent association overall but emphasized the need for more high-quality research.

So while ED and low libido aren’t among the most common side effects, some users have experienced them, and it’s worth paying attention to how your body feels during treatment.

What About Vaginal Dryness and Women’s Sexual Health?

Accutane is known to dry out the body’s mucous membranes, like your lips, eyes, and nose. Since the vagina also has mucous membranes, some women have reported vaginal dryness while on the medication.

Though there aren’t many official studies about this side effect in women, the connection makes sense based on how the drug works. Vaginal dryness can lead to discomfort during sex, which may also affect someone’s interest in being intimate.

Another factor to consider is birth control pills. Most people taking Accutane are required to use birth control, since the medication can cause serious birth defects. Some forms of birth control can also cause vaginal dryness or lower sex drive, which might make the symptoms worse.

Even though vaginal dryness isn’t listed as a common side effect, it can happen. If you notice changes in comfort or sexual health, it’s important to talk to your doctor. They may be able to suggest treatments or changes that can help.

Are These Side Effects Permanent?

The good news is that most Accutane side effects go away after treatment ends. That includes dry skin, chapped lips, and in most cases, changes in sex drive or function.

Some people feel back to normal within weeks. For others, recovery from erectile dysfunction or vaginal dryness may take longer. A small number of people say the symptoms continued after stopping treatment, but these cases are rare and still being studied.

Everyone’s body is different, and healing timelines can vary. That’s why it’s important to keep in touch with your doctor and report any ongoing issues.

What Should You Do If You Notice Sexual Side Effects?

First, know this: You are not alone, and you are not overreacting.

If you notice changes in your sex drive, erections, or comfort during sex while on Accutane, talk to your doctor. It may feel awkward, but it’s an important part of your health. These side effects are real, and your provider may be able to help you adjust your treatment or offer solutions.

Keep a journal of what you’re experiencing and when it started. That way, you’ll have helpful information to bring to your next appointment.

Final Thoughts

Accutane is one of the most effective treatments for severe acne. But like all medications, it can come with side effects, some that are unexpected or hard to talk about, like erectile dysfunction, vaginal dryness, or changes in sex drive.

If you’re worried about these symptoms, speak up. Most side effects go away after stopping treatment, and your doctor can guide you through the process if you need support. Always get medical advice before making any changes.

Your health, including your sexual health, matters.