Retin A Information



What are the three uses for Retin A (Tretinoin)?

Treatment of acne vulgaris, treating the visible signs of aging by diminishing the lines on the face and fading aging spots, initial studies have shown that tretinoin appears to enhance the effects on minoxidil for the treatment of alopecia or hair loss.

How does Retin A help with alopecia or hair loss?

Topical tretinoin appears to increase the beneficial effects of minoxidil, and it is thought that this is due to increased absorption of minoxidil through alteration of the stratum cornum barrier. One study showed a triple absorption with 0.05 tretinoin as compared with a control vehicle.

What should my health care professional know before I use Retin A?

Individuals should inform their physician if they have any of the following conditions:

" Eczema
" Sunburn
" An unusual or allergic reaction to Tretinoin, Vitamin A, other medications, dyes, foods or preservatives
" Pregnant or attempting to become pregnant
" Breast-feeding

It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining with the following:

Preparations containing benzoyl peroxide, such as Benzac AC Wash 5, Desquam-E, Benzshave, PanOxyl
Preparations containing sulfur i.e. ointments and other preparations used to treat
skin disorders and infections.
Resorcinol - a medication, used in ointments to treat acne, that causes skin to peel.
Sulfa drugs such as Bactrim and Septra
Medication containing Thiazide such as Diuril and HydroDIURIL
Salicylic acid - a medication used to treat bacteria and fungi.
Certain antibiotics, including Noroxin, Cipro and Tetracycline
Tranquilizers i.e. as Thorazine and Mellaril
Caution should also be exercised when using Renova in combination with other topical medications, such as, medicated or abrasive soaps, cosmetics that have a strong drying effect, astringents, spices, or lime, products with high concentrations with alcohol, permanent wave solutions, electrolysis, waxes, etc.

How should I use this medicine?

Tretinoin is for external use only, do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. Apply just enough liquid, gel, or cream to cover the affected area. Rub in gently. When using the liquid, use your fingers or a cotton swab or gauze pad to dab the liquid onto the affected area.

What If I miss a dose of Retin-A ?

If you miss a dose wait until the appropriate time the next evening and resume treatment as usual.

What are the most common side effects associated with taking Retin A?

" Burning
" Itching
" Crusting
" Swelling of the treated areas
" Darkening or lightening of the treated areas

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your physician if they continue or are bothersome):

" increased sensitivity to the sun
" mild stinging
" red, inflamed, and irritated skin, the skin may peel after a few days

Should Retin-A be used if you are pregnant or breastfeeding?

If you are pregnant or intend to become pregnant, do not use this medication. Clinical testing has not been done to establish whether the medication is present in the breast milk.

What do I need to watch for while I use Retin A?

Your acne may get worse during the first treatment period and should then start to improve. It may take 2 to 12 weeks before you see the full beneficial effect.

Do not wash your face more than 2 or 3 times a day, unless told to by your physician. Do not use the following products on the same areas that you are treating with tretinoin, unless otherwise directed by your physician: medicated cosmetics, cosmetics that dry the skin (especially products that contain alcohol), abrasive soaps or cleaners, and any other acne preparation or skin treatment. If you use these products in combination with tretinoin they can cause severe skin irritation. You can use non-medicated cosmetics (unless your physician instructs you otherwise); wash the skin well before applying Retin A.

Tretinoin can increase sensitivity of the skin to sun or UV light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths.

Special warnings concerning Retin A?

Do not apply the medication close to the eyes, mouth, angles of the nose, and/or mucous membranes. The medication may cause a brief feeling of warmth or slight stinging when applied. If it causes an abnormal irritation, redness, blistering, or peeling of the skin, notify your doctor. He may suggest that you use the medication less frequently, discontinue use temporarily, or discontinue use altogether. If a severe sensitivity reaction or chemical irritation occurs, you will probably need to stop using the drug. Individuals with eczema or other chronic skin conditions, use this medication with extreme caution, as it may cause severe irritation.