Information About Retin-A
IMPORTANT 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 this drug.
TRETINOIN - TOPICAL (tret-ih-NO-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Retin-A
USES: This medication is used in the treatment of acne. It reduces
the formation of pimples and promotes quick healing of pimples
that do develop.
HOW TO USE: Patient instructions are available with the product.
Read them carefully before using. Apply a thin layer to affected
area at bedtime. Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply the liquid.
Wash hands immediately after use. Using this medication more frequently
or in excessive amounts does not improve the results, but may
increase side effects. Avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, or
open cuts since this medication can irritate sensitive skin. Even
though acne may appear to worsen when the medication is first
used, continue therapy. It may take three to six weeks before
the full benefits of this medication are seen.
SIDE EFFECTS: Immediately after applying, 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
the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, inform your
doctor. This medicine 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
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: This medication 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. 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 this medication.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during
pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It
is not known if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
drugs you may use. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor
or pharmacist approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison
control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may
be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include excessive
redness, peeling, and discomfort.
NOTES: Cosmetics may be used, but clean skin thoroughly before
applying the medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered;
do not use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead, skip
the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not
"double-up" the dose to catch up.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature away from sunlight.
|
