Please do NOT take isotretinoin if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant.
Isotretinoin is a teratogen. This means that it can cause congenital birth defects and increase the risk of fetal death. This can occur even when exposed to isotretinoin for a short period of time.
Patients usually have to sign a contract prior to starting on a course of isotretinoin, to ensure that they are aware of the serious risks involved if they fall pregnant.
This contract usually includes an agreement to use 2 forms of contraception – 1 month prior to taking isotretinoin, while on the course of isotretinoin, and 1 month after stopping isotretinoin.
A negative pregnancy test is also usually required prior to initiation of therapy.
