Publication Date
11-1-2022
Journal
Cureus
DOI
10.7759/cureus.31442
PMID
36523684
PMCID
PMC9747069
PubMedCentral® Posted Date
11-13-2022
PubMedCentral® Full Text Version
Post-print
Published Open-Access
yes
Keywords
abortion, teratogenic medications, ethics, acne, reproductive autonomy, vitamin a supplements, isotretinoin
Abstract
Isotretinoin is a potent vitamin A derivative that is used to treat acne. However, despite its utility in dermatologic care, it is also highly teratogenic and can cause severe life-threatening fetal abnormalities in the first trimester of pregnancy. As a result, existing regulations are stringent in order to prevent accidental pregnancies in women taking isotretinoin. In the unlikely case of an unintended pregnancy, while taking isotretinoin, a woman could terminate her pregnancy with an abortion. However, with the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade, we explore the consequences of this landmark United States Supreme Court ruling with special attention to those taking isotretinoin and over-the-counter (OTC) vitamin A supplements.
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Life Sciences Commons, Medical Sciences Commons, Mental and Social Health Commons, Obstetrics and Gynecology Commons, Public Health Education and Promotion Commons, Skin and Connective Tissue Diseases Commons, Women's Health Commons