What should patients taking isotretinoin participate in before use?

Patients taking isotretinoin must participate in the iPLEDGE program before use due to the significant risk of birth defects associated with the medication. Isotretinoin is a powerful retinoid used primarily to treat severe acne, and it can cause severe teratogenic effects if taken during pregnancy. The iPLEDGE program is a risk management distribution program that aims to prevent fetal exposure to isotretinoin.

As part of this program, both male and female patients are required to understand the risks involved and take necessary precautions. Females of childbearing potential must use two forms of effective birth control for at least one month before, during, and for at least one month after treatment. The program mandates regular pregnancy tests to confirm that females are not pregnant at the time of starting isotretinoin and throughout the treatment course.

This rigorous process ensures that patients are fully informed about the potential risks and responsibilities involved with using isotretinoin, enhancing patient safety and effectiveness of the treatment. Other options, such as cholesterol testing, allergy testing, or blood pressure evaluation, while useful in certain contexts, do not directly address the critical risks associated with isotretinoin use. Thus, they are not prerequisites for starting the medication like