Tretinoin

Information About Tretinoin

Uses of Tretinoin

Tretinoin is commonly used in the treatment acne, blood cancer, blood cancer acute lymphoblastic leukemia and vitiligo.

How Tretinoin Works

Topical Tretinoin stimulates mitosis and turnover and thus decreasing the cohesiveness of follicular epithelial cells when applied. Thus causing extrusion of existing comedones and preventing the formation of comedones. In the systemic route, it decreases the proliferation of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).

Side Effects of Tretinoin

Fever, Skin dryness, Dryness of mouth, Irregular heartbeat, Flushing, Low blood pressure, Skin irritation, Stinging sensation, Skin pigmentation, Photosensitivity

Authorship

Written By

Dr Mohd Ramzdhan Bin Mohd Masdar

MD (Crimea State Medical University)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Tretinoin Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Using alcohol with tretinoin may cause unfavourable interactions to occur whether it is used systemically or topically. Discuss with your healthcare professional the use of your medicine with alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Though there is a limited amount of data from the use of tretinoin in pregnant women but there is a high risk of severe malformation of the fetus, particularly if given during the first trimester, therefore, it must not be used during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester unless the condition of the mother requires treatment with tretinoin.

Lactation Not Advisable

It is excreted into the breast milk. Discontinue breastfeeding once tretinoin therapy is initiated

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Tretinoin may cause side effects such as dizziness, headches, nausea or palpitations, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Tretinoin should use with caution in a patient with impaired kidney functions. A renal profile may be done before starting tretinoin therapy and the first month after initiating it.

Liver Use With Care

Tell your doctor if you have any liver diseases since it is metabolized in the liver. Your doctor might have to adjust the dose accordingly. Monitoring is also needed as it can cause liver toxicity.