ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
Acne, palliation of fine wrinkles (Renova) and mottled skin pigmentation
BRAND NAME Retin-A, Avita, Renova
DRUG CLASS
Topical acne drug, vitamin A derivative
DESCRIPTION
This drug is used primarily to fight acne. It works possibly by decreasing the cohesiveness of skin cells, which decreases acne formation.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Local reactions, including peeling, dry skin, burning, stinging, redness, itching.
CAUTIONS
Keep away from the eyes, mouth, and mucous membranes. For topical external use only.
This drug is considered a skin irritant. The effects of the chronic use (greater than 48 weeks) of this drug is not known.
May induce severe local redness, burning, stinging. May cause severe irritation to eczematous skin.
Minimize exposure to sunlight and sunlamps. The use of this product causes heightened sun sensitivity.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Topical sulfur, resorcinol, benzoyl peroxide, or salicylic acid. Other medicated or abrasive cleansers that may dry the skin (such as astringents, cosmetics, alcohol containing products, etc.).
Consult your doctor or pharmacist prior to using other topical products. Other drugs that increase sensitivity to the sun (photosensitizers) such as thiazides, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, phenothiazines, sulfonamides.
FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown
HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Unknown
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
Category C. Oral tretinoin is teratogenic. Not known if excreted in breast milk after topical use. Consult your doctor.
SPECIAL INFORMATION
Wash with mild soap and dry skin approximately 20 to 30 minutes prior to application. Ensure skin is entirely dry before application to minimize potential for irritation. Extreme weather conditions (wind, cold, heat) may be more irritating with the use of this drug.
