Teratogenic Effect of Isotretinoin in Both Fertile Females and Males: A Review

The review discussed the teratogenic effects of isotretinoin, a vitamin A derivative used for severe acne, which significantly reduced sebum production but posed a 20-35% risk of congenital defects in infants exposed in utero, including craniofacial, cardiovascular, and neurological malformations. Despite pregnancy prevention programs like iPLEDGE, the risk remained significant. Studies on mice indicated embryotoxicity and reproductive organ changes in males, though human data were limited. The teratogenicity was linked to isotretinoin-induced apoptosis in various cell types, highlighting the need for careful management and regulation of isotretinoin use, especially in populations at risk of pregnancy.