Anyone taking Accutane must be enrolled in, and meet certain requirements of, the iPledge program. But men and women who can't get pregnant have different requirements than women who can get pregnant. Women of non-childbearing potential include post-menopausal women, women who had their ovaries removed, and women who are otherwise physically unable to bear children. Women who have had their tubes tied are considered to be of childbearing potential, because of the slight chance of pregnancy even after the procedure.
If you are male, or you are a woman who can't get pregnant, you are required by iPledge to:
Talk to Your Doctor
Before enrolling in the program, you'll need to get counseling from your doctor regarding the proper use possible side effects of isotretinoin use. Isotretinoin is a powerful drug that can be a wonderful treatment for those with severe acne, but it does come with some risks. The goal is for you to understand what these risks are before beginning treatment.Read and Sign Patient Information/Informed Consent
Your doctor will have you read and sign documents stating you understand the risks involved with isotretinoin treatment. You also need to understand what your responsibilities are during treatment. Ask your doctor if you have any questions, or if there is anything you don't understand.See Your Doctor Every Month
You and your doctor will get to know each other very well during your isotretinoin treatment. You'll be seeing each other every month. During these visits, you'll be able to talk about any side effects you may be experiencing, ask questions and voice concerns, have blood tests done as needed. Then you'll be on your way to getting your next 30-day supply of medication.Pick up Your Prescription within a 30-Day Window
Unlike women of childbearing potential, you will have a 30-day window in which to fill and pick up your prescription. Count Day 1 as the day of your doctor's appointment. If, for some reason, you can't pick up your medication within this window, you will have to go through the authorization process again.Not Donate Your Blood
While it's admirable to want to donate your blood for those who may need it, you can't donate while taking isotretinoin. If your blood is given to a woman who is pregnant, her unborn child could be exposed to the drug and be at risk for severe birth defects.Once you have completed all of these requirements, and they are entered into the iPledge computer system, you will be able to fill your prescription. Your pharmacist will access this system to receive authorization to give you your medication. You must meet these requirements every month that you are taking isotretinoin.
