Drug Name: RETIN
A
IMPORTANT RETIN A NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT SUBSTITUTE
FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR
OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO INDICATE
THAT USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR YOU.
CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING RETIN A.
TRETINOIN - TOPICAL (tret-ih-NO-in)
COMMON RETIN A BRAND NAME(S):
Retin A
RETIN A USES:
Retin A is used in the treatment of acne. Retin A reduces the formation
of pimples and promotes quick healing of pimples that do develop.
HOW TO USE RETIN A:
Patient instructions are available with Retin A. Read them carefully
before using Retin A. Apply a thin layer of Retin A to affected
area at bedtime. Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply the Retin
A liquid. Wash hands immediately after use. Using Retin An more
frequently or in excessive amounts does not improve the results,
but may increase side effects. Avoid applying Retin A near the eyes,
mouth, or open cuts since Retin A can irritate sensitive skin. Even
though acne may appear to worsen when Retin A is first used, continue
therapy. It may take three to six weeks before the full benefits
of Retin A are seen.
RETIN A SIDE EFFECTS:
Immediately after applying Retin A, the skin may feel warm or mild
stinging or redness may occur. Some peeling of the skin may occur.
These effects should subside as your skin adjusts to Retin A. If
they persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Retin A may
also increase sun sensitivity. Notify your doctor if you experience:
blistering, crusting, redness, severe burning or swelling of the
skin. If you notice other effects from Retin A not listed above,
contact your doctor or pharmacist.
RETIN A PRECAUTIONS:
Retin A can increase sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Avoid
prolonged exposure to the sun and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing
and use an effective sunscreen. Use mild soap when washing your
face after using Retin A. Do not wash face excessively. Abrasive
soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions can increase skin
irritation. Consult your doctor or pharmacist about their use. Use
other acne preparations with caution while using Retin A. Retin
A should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits of Retin A with your doctor. It is not known
if Retin A passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding
if planning to use Retin A.
RETIN A DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription drugs you
may use before taking Retin A. Do not start or stop Retin A or any
medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
RETIN A OVERDOSE:
If Retin A overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Retin A may be harmful if
swallowed. Symptoms of Retin A overdose may include excessive redness,
peeling, and discomfort.
RETIN A NOTES:
Cosmetics may be used, but clean skin thoroughly before applying
Retin A.
MISSED RETIN A DOSE:
If you miss a Retin A dose, use Retin A as soon as remembered; do
not use if Retin A is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip
the missed Retin A dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do
not "double-up" the Retin A dose to catch up.
RETIN A STORAGE:
Store Retin A at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15
to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store Retin A
in a moist bathroom. Keep Retin A and all medications out of the
reach of children. |