Tretinoin

TRETINOIN CREAM (tret-ih-NO-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Renova

USES: This medication is used to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing roughness and improving coloration. This can also be used to treat acne.

HOW TO USE THIS MEDICATION: This medication is for use on the face as directed, usually once a day at bedtime. Clean and dry your face. Apply a pea-size amount of cream using just enough to cover your entire face lightly. Be careful to avoid your eyes, nostrils and mouth. Wash your hands after use. Do not use this more often than prescribed or in large amounts. It will not give you faster or better results but will increase the risk of side effects. Do not use on sunburn or eczema or other serious skin conditions. Effects of this medication will be gradual with most improvement seen in the first 6 months of continued therapy. If used for acne the condition may worsen at first, then improve.

SIDE EFFECTS: You may experience mild redness or stinging, itching, burning, skin scaling, peeling and dry skin the first several weeks as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects continue or become severe, discontinue use and notify your doctor. Report any of the following serious effects:

blisters/crusting or swelling of skin, darkening or lightening of skin color. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing skin disorders or if you have any allergies. This medication increases your sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure and avoid sun lamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breast-feeding.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription medication you may take including isotretinoin, amiodarone, tetracyclines or quinolone antibiotics, sulfa-drugs or phenothiazines as they increase skin sensitivity to the sun. Also minoxidil and any skin medication, soaps, cleansers, cosmetics, astringents or any facial products that may be drying or irritating (e.g., alcohol-containing facial products). Benzoyl peroxide should not be applied at the same time as this medication. 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: This medication is not a cosmetic. It is to be used in conjunction with a comprehensive skin care and sun avoidance program.

MISSED DOSE: If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up" the amount used to catch up.

STORAGE: Store this medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 25 degrees C). Do not freeze. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children.