Isotretinoin Monitoring Information

This leaflet provides additional information about the monitoring required while you are taking isotretinoin. It should be read alongside the British Association of Dermatologists (BAD) patient information leaflet.

What is Isotretinoin?

Isotretinoin is a vitamin A–related medicine used to treat severe acne. It is highly effective but requires careful monitoring to ensure it remains safe for you.

Why is monitoring needed?

Isotretinoin can affect:

• Liver function
• Levels of fats in your blood (cholesterol and triglycerides).

It can also cause serious harm to an unborn baby, so strict pregnancy prevention measures are required.

How often are tests done?

A blood test is usually performed after the first month of treatment. Further tests are carried out periodically (often every two to three months) depending on your results. Your doctor may adjust how often tests are needed depending on your individual circumstances.

Please ensure you keep up to date with your blood tests and arrange timely appointments with your GP or at South Walks House.

The South Walks House clinic is located next to Dorchester Library. Phlebotomy clinics operate Monday to Friday, from 8am to 4.30pm. To book an appointment at any of the clinics, please call 01305 254822 between 11am and 2pm. An answerphone service is available after 2pm.

Pregnancy prevention programme

Isotretinoin must not be taken during pregnancy, as it can cause serious harm to an unborn baby. If you are able to become pregnant:

• You must use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after stopping
• Pregnancy testing is required before treatment, every month during treatment, and one month after stopping.

Please inform your doctor immediately if you think you may be pregnant.

When should I seek medical advice?

Contact your doctor if you develop:

• Mood changes or low mood
• Severe or persistent headache
• Visual disturbance
• Severe abdominal pain.

Important points to remember

• Do not donate blood while taking this medication and for one month after stopping
• Avoid vitamin A supplements while taking isotretinoin
• Keep up to date with your blood tests and arrange appointments promptly.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this information useful. If you have any questions or are worried about anything, please speak to the following Dorset County Hospital staff:

Dermatology Department 01305 255118 (answer machine, monitored daily) dermatologypractitioners@dchft.nhs.uk

About this leaflet

Authors: Harriet Matthews, Nursing Associate, Dr.Ghadah Al-Sharbatee
Written: April 2026
Approved: May 2026
Review date: May 2029
Edition: v1

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk