How is isotretinoin treatment different in pregnancy?

Isotretinoin is an oral medicine used for severe or treatment-resistant acne. It can cause major birth defects if taken during pregnancy, and pregnancy may not be recognised immediately. For that reason, people who can become pregnant need a prescriber-led safety process, including pregnancy testing and reliable contraception requirements according to local medical guidance. Do not share capsules or use leftover medicine.

If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are planning pregnancy, do not start isotretinoin and contact the prescribing clinician promptly. If pregnancy occurs while taking it, stop taking it and seek urgent advice from the prescriber and an obstetric clinician. Do not make up missed doses or restart on your own. Acne treatment can be changed to an option considered appropriate for pregnancy, based on your skin and medical history.

Contact a clinician promptly after any possible pregnancy exposure, even if you feel well. Seek medical help for severe headache with vision change, marked mood change, or other concerning symptoms during treatment. Keep all scheduled monitoring appointments and report new medicines or supplements.

Ask how pregnancy is excluded before treatment, how long precautions must continue, which contraception plan is suitable, what alternative acne treatments are available, and whom to contact after a possible exposure.