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

March 2021 in “ Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine ”

Carmen‐Cristina Draghici, Raluca‐Gabriela Miulescu, Răzvan Petca, Aida Petca, Mihai Cristian Dumitraşcu, Florica Șandru

isotretinoin vitamin A derivative sebum production teratogenic effects congenital defects craniofacial malformations cardiovascular malformations neurological malformations iPLEDGE embryotoxicity apoptosis Accutane

TLDR Isotretinoin can cause serious birth defects and needs careful use, especially in pregnant women.

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.

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Research cited in this study

2 / 2 results

research Apoptosis May Explain the Pharmacological Mode of Action and Adverse Effects of Isotretinoin, Including Teratogenicity

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

Research cited in this study

research Apoptosis May Explain the Pharmacological Mode of Action and Adverse Effects of Isotretinoin, Including Teratogenicity

research Skin Expression of Mammalian Target of Rapamycin and Forkhead Box Transcription Factor O1, and Serum Insulin-Like Growth Factor-1 in Patients with Acne Vulgaris and Their Relationship with Diet

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