Birth Defects
Women of childbearing age must be absolutely certain they are not pregnant before starting Accutane® and do not become pregnant while on Accutane® or in the one month following the completion of Accutane® treatment. Accutane® likely will cause severe birth defects if taken during this time.
After being off Accutane® for at least one month, there is no increased risk of birth defects compared to women who have never taken Accutane®. With the help of the iPledge™ Consent Program, your doctor will educate your extensively about this danger. Sexually active women of child bearing age must use two approved forms of contraception, one primary and one secondary, for the one month before starting Accutane®, while on Accutane®, and for one month after finishing Accutane®. Women may instead choose 100% complete abstinence for the month before, during and for the month following Accutane® treatment. Some dermatologists insist that all their female patients of child bearing potential take a birth control pill during this time even if not sexually active. Men must also be aware of the pregnancy issue, as it is important for all Accutane® users not to share the drug with anyone and not to donate blood during treatment or in the month following treatment.