Tretinoin
Information about Tretinoin
Tretinoin uses
Tretinoin is used in the treatment of acne and Acute promyelocytic leukaemia.
How tretinoin works
Tretinoin is a form of vitamin A. When applied on skin, it reduces oil production in the skin, replenishes acne-prone skin and helps keep your pores open. To treat blood cancer, it works by slowing the growth of certain types of diseased blood cells, and promotes the growth of normal, mature cells in the bone marrow and blood. This helps to treat blood cancer (acute promyelocytic leukemia).
Common side effects of tretinoin
Erythema (skin redness), Skin irritation, Stinging sensation, Itching, Skin peeling, Burning sensation, Dry skin, Skin pain, Pharyngitis, Headache, Fever, Nausea, Vomiting, Bone pain, Hearing loss, Bleeding, Changes in skin color, Skin pigmentation, Hypopigmentation, Arterial thrombosis, Venous thrombosis, Thrombocytosis, Vasculitis
Available Medicine for Tretinoin
Expert advice for Tretinoin
- You have been prescribed Tretinoin for the treatment of acne.
- Clean the affected area with water and a non-medicated soap. Let it dry for 20-30 minutes before applying Tretinoin.
- It may increase the severity of the spots or pimples in the first few weeks of use. Continue using it as prescribed by your doctor.
- It may cause a stinging sensation or a feeling of warmth when you first start using it. Inform your doctor if this persists.
- Avoid exposure to sunlight while using Tretinoin as it increases the sensitivity of your skin. Use protective measures such as sunscreen or protective clothing.
- Avoid face waxing and laser treatment while using this medicine as it makes your skin more fragile.
- Avoid taking tetracycline (e.g. doxycycline) as it may reduce the Tretinoin activity.
- Do not use Tretinoin if you are pregnant.
- Inform your doctor if excessive skin dryness or skin sensitivity takes place.
Frequently asked questions for Tretinoin
Tretinoin
Q. Can I undergo cosmetic procedures while taking Tretinoin?
Your doctor will decide whether you can continue taking or stop taking Tretinoin before cosmetic procedures. However, it is advised to not undergo hair removal or laser treatments while using Tretinoin. Please inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking before starting the treatment with this medicine. Also, consult the doctor before starting any cosmetic procedure.
Q. Is it safe to use Tretinoin?
Yes, Tretinoin is safe to use when taken as advised by your doctor. However, like all medicines, even this medicine has some side effects, but it is not necessary that anyone who is taking these medicines might get these side effects. Please talk to your doctor if you get any unpleasant effects while taking this medicine.
Q. How long am I supposed to use Tretinoin?
Your doctor will decide the duration of your treatment depending on the severity of your disease and the results of your lab tests. Usually, the treatment with Tretinoin takes around 4-5 months.