Retin-A Information:
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 Retin-A at room temperature away
from sunlight. |