Treating Recalcitrant Acne: Isotretinoin as an Option

Since 1982, isotretinoin has been known as an effective treatment for acne; however, from isotretinoin’s introduction, there was evidence that it could cause birth defects in fetuses exposed to the drug during gestation, especially during the first trimester. This course discusses the basic pharmacological profile, use, and clinical outcomes of isotretinoin treatment, its contraindications and side effects, and risk mitigation of potential birth defects in women who take isotretinoin while pregnant.