If you’re going to takeisotretinoin, prepare to get familiar with theiPledge program.
This program was put in place to prevent birth defects triggered by isotretinoin.
(Men have their own set of iPledge requirements, too.)
As these steps are completed, they are entered into the computer-based iPledge system.
Your pharmacist will access this system to receive authorization to give you your medication.
You must re-qualify with iPledge every month prior to refilling your prescription.
This article lists the isotretinoin iPledge requirements that you will need to meet to use isotretinoin.
You’ll also go over possible side effects of isotretinoin.
It’s important you understand all the risks involved before committing to treatment.
Take this time to ask questions.
If you’re unsure about something or don’t understand something, let your healthcare provider know.
These documents are basically a review of what you and your healthcare provider have talked about regarding isotretinoin use.
Read through the information.
After reading, you’ll sign the documents.
Again, if you’re not clear on something, don’t be afraid to ask before you sign.
You should avoid pregnancy for at least one month after stopping isotretinoin.
Going forward, monthly pregnancy tests must be done by a CLIA-certified lab.
Your healthcare provider will give you information on approved labs in your area.
Birth control forms must be used together, at the same time (i.e.condomsalong withoral contraceptives).
Not all forms of birth control are approved by the iPledge program.
Talk to your healthcare provider about accepted forms of contraception.
This appointment may be paid for by the program.
Once there, you will be asked random questions about the iPledge program.
You will also confirm the two birth control methods you are using.
You cannot skip this step.
Your pharmacist can’t fill your prescription until you have completed all necessary steps.
You will have to pick up your prescription within the next seven days.
This means you will have to do another pregnancy test and answer questions in the iPledge system again.
Unless this is your first prescription, it’s possible for you to immediately begin the qualifying process.
You will be locked out of the system during this timeno exceptions.
Neither your pharmacist, healthcare provider, nor the iPledge call center can “unlock” you.
Don’t Donate Blood
Do not donate blood while taking isotretinoin.
What Are the Risks of Taking IsotretinoinDuring Pregnancy?
The risk ofmiscarriageis as high as 40% in people who used isotretinoin in early pregnancy.
Another 35% or more of infants who were exposed to isotretinoin in pregnancy are born with birth defects.
Hearing and eyesight problems are also common.
You should also call the provider who will be taking care of you during pregnancy.
Your healthcare team may wish to perform tests and ultrasounds to screen for some birth defects.
These tests cannot detect if the child will develop problems with learning and development.
How Long After IsotretinoinCan I Get Pregnant?
In most healthy adults, it takes about 10 days for all traces of isotretinoin to leave the body.
Even so, wise to wait one month after stopping isotretinoin before trying to get pregnant.
These can be signs of miscarriage.
Isotretinoin is not recommended in people who are breastfeeding.
Call your healthcare provider if you are breastfeeding and interested in starting isotretinoin.
You will also need to answer monthly questions in the iPledge system to prove you understand its requirements.
Your dermatologist will help you find thebest acne treatment medication.
2019 Oct;155(10).
March of Dimes.Isotretinoin and other retinoids during pregnancy.
Drexel University College of Medicine.iPledge: An ineffective program, impeding effective care.
