Acitretin

Dusa Pharmaceuticals, Inc. | Acitretin (Medication)


Desc:

Acitretin is a retinoid, which is a form of vitamin A.

This medication is a retinoid used in the treatment of severe psoriasis and other skin disorders in adults. It is usually given after other psoriasis medicines have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms.

Acitretin is not a cure for psoriasis, and you may relapse after you stop taking this medication.

This medication is taken by mouth exactly as prescribed, usually once a day with the main meal, at the same time every day. The dosage is based on the medical condition and response to therapy. Do not take this more often or increase your dose without consulting your doctor. The risk of side effects may increase and your condition will not improve any faster. This drug must be taken regular because it may take 2 to 3 months before the full benefit is visible. ...

Side Effect:

Like any medicine, Acitretin can cause side effects.

The one that is very serious and need medical help immediately is allergic reaction, including:hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Other side effects that can occur are:blurred vision, headache or pain behind your eyes, sometimes with vomiting; sudden decrease in night vision; depressed mood, aggression, unusual thoughts or behavior, thoughts of hurting yourself; chest pain or heavy feeling, spreading to the arm or shoulder, sweating, shortness of breath; sudden headache, confusion, problems with speech or balance, numbness or weakness; sudden cough, wheezing, rapid breathing, fast heart rate; pain or swelling in one or both legs; jaundice ; or loss of feeling in your hands or feet, trouble moving, pain in your back, joints, muscles, or bones. If any of these appear stop taking the medicine and seek medical help.

Less serious side effects include:dry or irritated eyes, thinning eyebrows or lashes; chapped or peeling skin, hair loss; dry mouth, dry or runny nose, nosebleeds; warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin; nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain, loss of appetite; mouth sores, swollen or bleeding gums; headache; insomnia; or ringing in your ears. ...

Precaution:

Before taking acitretin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other retinoids; or if you have any other allergies.

Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have severe liver disease, severe kidney disease, heart disease, diabetes or receive phototherapy.

Do not donate blood while taking acitretin and for at least 3 years after you stop taking it.

Acitretin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight and sunburn may result, therefor is recommended to use a sunscreen (minimum SPF 15) and wear protective clothing if you must be out in the sun.

Acitretin may cause vision changes, so do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires clear vision, especially at night, until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

This medication can cause birth defects. Do not use if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant within 3 years after you stop taking acitretin. During pregnancy, Acitretin is also not recommended. ...