Tretinoin, Topical

U.S. Brand Names

Atralin™; Avita®; Renova®; Retin-A®; Retin-A® Micro; Tretin-X™

Canadian Brand Names

Rejuva-A®; Retin-A®; Retin-A® Micro; Retinova®

Mexican Brand Names

Acfen-A; Retacnyl; Retin-A; Stieva-A

Pharmacologic Category

Acne Products; Retinoic Acid Derivative; Topical Skin Product, Acne

Reasons not to take this medicine

• If you have an allergy to tretinoin or any other part of this medicine.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.

• If you are sunburned.

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used to treat acne.

• This medicine is used to treat sun damaged skin and some skin cancers.

• This medicine is used to decrease wrinkles and liver spots. It may take 6 weeks to see the full effect.

How does it work?

• Tretinoin, topical increases cell turnover and allows the top layer of skin to peel off. It may take up to 7 weeks to see the full effects.

How is it best taken?

• Do not take this medicine by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).

• Apply at bedtime.

• Wash hands before and after use.

• Clean affected area before use. Make sure to dry well.

• Wait 30 minutes before use.

• Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently.

• Practice good skin care and sun avoidance.

What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.

• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.

• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• If you have eczema, talk with healthcare provider.

• Skin may look worse before it looks better.

• Avoid cigarette smoking.

• Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.

• You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.

• Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.

• Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.

What are some possible side effects of this medicine?

• Short-term discomfort after use.

• Skin irritation.

• Sunburn.

What should I monitor?

• Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?

• Follow up with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center or emergency department immediately.

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.

• Severe skin irritation.

• No improvement in condition or feeling worse.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

• Protect gel from heat.

General statements

• If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.

• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.

• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).

• Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.

Created: 2006-10-13 16:09:08.0

Modified: 2008-04-30 11:13:28.0

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