Use a highly effective form of birth control while taking Accutane. This means methods with failure rates below 1%, such as hormonal IUDs or implants. Oral contraceptives alone are insufficient given Accutane’s potential teratogenic effects.
The risk of severe birth defects is extremely high with Accutane exposure during pregnancy. This risk remains significant even with a single dose. Therefore, reliable contraception is mandatory throughout treatment and for at least one month after the final dose.
Your dermatologist will likely require pregnancy tests before starting and regularly throughout your Accutane treatment. This is to ensure your safety and compliance with necessary precautions. Open communication with your doctor about your contraceptive choices is vital.
Remember: Accutane can interact with some medications, so always inform your doctor and pharmacist about all your medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. This includes discussing your choice of birth control.