Isotretinoin, marketed since 1984 under the name of Roaccutane, is the drug used against severe forms of acne resistant to other treatments (antibiotics, local treatment). However, side effects, especially in pregnant women with a risk of fetal malformations, require doctors, pharmacists and patients to certain strict rules.

Extremely effective against acne resistant to conventional therapy undertaken for at least three months, Roaccutane  is dangerous for pregnant women because of teratogenic risk (fetal malformations). It is part of prescription medicines restricted involving close monitoring, especially among women of childbearing age.

His prescription calls for:

• achieving a pregnancy test in the previous three days taking Roaccutane, and monthly thereafter;
• the initiation of contraception one month before starting treatment, during and until one month after stopping;
• accurate information of the patient, including boys, to be sure they do not 'pass' treatment in a girlfriend.