Pregnant, stop taking this acne treatment

While acne treatments containing isotretinoin are strictly prohibited for pregnant women, it appears that some doctors still prescribe them. Zoom on the consequences of the molecule.

We all know about the side effects of acne treatments containing isotretinoin. On the average person, it can cause liver problems, big lesions on the lips, eye problems … and many more. Better known under the brand Roaccutane, this drug is the worst enemy of adolescents.

Very harmful for a healthy person, imagine the effects that this product can have on a pregnant woman. This treatment is strictly prohibited for pregnancies. However, the Medicines Agency (ANSM) said that each year since 2010, around 175 pregnancies were still exposed to the molecule. In addition to this, you need to know more about it.

Extremely undesirable effects

Beyond the fact that the treatment is aggressive for the mother, it is even more so for the baby. ANSM recalls this Thursday, February 18 that “Oral isotretinoin medicines should never be used in pregnant women and women of childbearing potential if the conditions of the pregnancy prevention plan are not met. Taking oral isotretinoin during pregnancy is associated with a risk of more than 30% of malformations, such as abnormalities of the brain, face or heart, in children exposed in utero ".

The risks are enormous. While 20% of pregnant women suffer from acne, many are on treatment, on prescription from their doctor. However, it is reported that every woman prescribed this type of molecule must first take a pregnancy test to make sure that she is not pregnant. Tests are also arranged throughout the treatment. In addition, the risks for women who are pregnant are indicated in the package leaflet. How is it possible that doctors still prescribe this drug to pregnant women?

Risks of autistic disorders

Apparent deformities are not the only consequences for an unborn baby. According to ANSM, risks of autistic disorders have been identified in young children exposed during pregnancy, without visible malformation. Very disturbing announcements.

It is therefore essential for pregnant women to know the risks and never to accept such treatment, even if it is prescribed by a doctor. There are other, much less aggressive and dangerous ways to treat acne. In addition to this, you need to know more about it.

Cecile Fischer

Initially a fashion student, Cécile slowly turned to journalism, which she found more sincere. She is an editor for aufeminin and Parole de mamans, proud to write for committed media.

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