Tretinoin
Uses of Tretinoin
Tretinoin is commonly used in the treatment Acne, Blood Cancer, Blood Cancer Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia and Vitiligo.
How Tretinoin Works
Tretinoin acts by stimulating mitosis and turnover and thus decreases the viscidness of follicular epithelial cells when applied topically. This then prevents the formation of the comedones by causing extrusion of existing comedones. By acting systemically, it decreases the proliferation of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) cells by induces cellular differentiation.
Side Effects of Tretinoin
Fever, Skin dryness, Dryness of mouth, Irregular heartbeat, Flushing, Low blood pressure, Skin irritation, Stinging sensation, Skin pigmentation, Photosensitivity
Warnings
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.
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.
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.
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.
Lactation Not Advisable
It is excreted into the breast milk. Discontinue breastfeeding once Tretinoin therapy is initiated