Oral retinoids are a type of medication commonly used to treat severe acne, with Roaccutane being a well-known brand. While these oral retinoids are highly effective in treating acne, they pose significant risks if taken during pregnancy. The potential harm includes an increased risk of miscarriages and severe congenital abnormalities in unborn babies, affecting various parts of the body such as the brain, heart, and face. Studies have shown that around 30% of children exposed to oral retinoids during pregnancy develop severe congenital abnormalities.

In addition to physical abnormalities, neurodevelopmental issues such as learning difficulties, impaired social skills, and memory and attention problems are also frequently observed in children exposed to oral retinoids in utero.

To mitigate these risks, the Australasian College of Dermatologists strongly advises against prescribing oral retinoids to women who are pregnant or planning to conceive within a month. Dermatologists are urged to confirm a woman’s non-pregnant status before initiating treatment with oral retinoids and to thoroughly discuss the potential risks with women of childbearing age.

Despite these precautions and the warnings provided on the medication packaging, cases of pregnancies exposed to oral retinoids continue to be reported both in Australia and globally. A recent study aimed to assess the prevalence of oral retinoid use among Australian women of reproductive age and evaluate their contraceptive practices.

The findings of the study revealed a concerning trend, indicating that a significant number of Australian women of reproductive age who were prescribed oral retinoids were not utilizing effective contraception methods while on the medication.