What is the relationship btwn Accutane and pregnancy?

• A. It is safe during pregnancy
• B. Do not take if pregnant or planning to become; can cause serious birth defects. Pregnancy category X
• C. It has no effect on pregnancy
• D. It is only a risk if breastfeeding

Answer: (B)

Isotretinoin (Accutane) is an extremely powerful teratogen. Exposure during pregnancy can cause severe, often irreversible birth defects of the brain, face, heart, and other organs, and can lead to miscarriage or fetal death. Because of this, it must not be used in pregnancy or by anyone planning to become pregnant. It is classified as pregnancy category X. To prevent fetal exposure, strict contraception is required and pregnancy tests are performed before and during treatment, with programs in place to manage risk. Therefore, the correct understanding is that Accutane must be avoided in pregnancy and for those planning pregnancy due to the high risk of serious birth defects.