Pregnancy, breastfeeding and fertility while taking isotretinoin capsules

Isotretinoin and pregnancy

Do not take isotretinoin if you are pregnant or think you may become pregnant.

Isotretinoin should not be used in pregnancy as it can cause birth defects. If you become pregnant during treatment with isotretinoin capsules, stop taking the capsules and speak to your doctor as soon as possible.

It's very important that you do not get pregnant while you're taking isotretinoin capsules. You'll be asked by your doctor to follow strict rules to prevent pregnancy during treatment and for 1 month afterwards.

Before starting treatment with isotretinoin capsules, if you are able to become pregnant you must agree to:

• use at least 1 very reliable method of contraception (such as an intrauterine device or contraceptive implant or injection) or 2 effective methods of contraception that work in different ways (such as a hormonal contraceptive pill and a barrier method such as condoms) – do not use barrier methods of contraception on their own
• use your chosen contraception for 1 month before starting isotretinoin capsules, during treatment, and for 1 month after treatment has stopped
• use contraception even if you do not have periods or you are not sexually active (unless you doctor decides this is not necessary)

Discuss your contraception with your specialist.

You will need to have a pregnancy test before starting isotretinoin, during treatment (ideally monthly), and 1 month after the end of treatment.

Your doctor will give you information, including a patient reminder card for isotretinoin.

Read this card and the information leaflet that comes with your medicine before you start taking isotretinoin capsules.

Men and isotretinoin capsules

Men can safely take isotretinoin capsules if they and their partner are trying for a baby, or their partner is pregnant.

Isotretinoin does not seem to damage sperm. Only small amounts of isotretinoin get into semen, which is too little to harm the unborn baby.

Isotretinoin and breastfeeding

Do not take isotretinoin capsules while you are breastfeeding. This medicine may get into breast milk and could harm your baby.

Speak to your doctor about other medicines you can use while breastfeeding.

Isotretinoin and fertility

There's no clear evidence to suggest that taking isotretinoin capsules reduces fertility in either men or women.

However, it's important not to take isotretinoin capsules if you're trying for a baby or become pregnant. This medicine can harm a developing baby.