|
|  |
Skin Care > Retin-A
Retin-A
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.
Uses
Retin-A is most commonly used to reduce the appearance of fine wrinkles,
skin discolorations and roughness of the skin. It is sometimes used to treat
acne. It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your
doctor.
How to Use
Retin-A is usually prescribed for the facial area for use at bedtime. Follow
doctor’s directions for use. Wash hands before and after using Retin-A.
Apply a small amount to clean, dry skin, avoiding contact with the eyes,
nostrils, mouth, open sores or irritated skin. Treatment may be necessary
for weeks or months before improvement is seen. In the treatment of acne,
you may experience a temporary worsening of acne at the start of therapy.
Continue your treatment as prescribed by your doctor.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of Retin-A include mild redness or stinging, itching,
burning, skin scaling, peeling and dry skin for the first several weeks of
use. If any of these conditions continue or worsen during use, discontinue
use and notify your doctor. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that
seems unusual or concerns you.
Precautions
Talk to your doctor about any allergies or pre-existing skin disorders you
have before using this medicine. Retin-A increases skin’s sensitivity to the
sun. Therefore, limit sun exposure and wear sunscreen and/or protective
clothing when outdoors. Avoid direct exposure to sunlight or artificial UV
rays. Do not use Retin-A on skin that is sunburned, wind burned, dry,
chapped, or irritated. Avoid using Retin-A during pregnancy. Talk to your
doctor if you are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant.
Drug Interactions
Talk to your doctor before taking any prescription or over-the-counter
medicines, including herbal products, especially if you are using
isotretinoin, amiodarone, tetracycline or quinolone antibiotics, sulfa-drugs
or phenothiazines, as these drugs increase skin sensitivity to the sun. To
avoid severe skin irritation, do not use products containing benzoyl
peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid unless directed by your
doctor. Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Retin-A.
Notes
Retin-A is not a cosmetic and is intended to be used in conjunction with a
comprehensive skin care and sun avoidance program. Do not share Retin-A with
others for whom it was not prescribed, since they may have a problem that is
not effectively treated by this drug.
Missed Dose
If you miss a treatment of this medicine, apply it as soon as you remember.
Do not take a double dose of this medication.
Storage
Store this medicine at room temperature in a tightly-closed container, away
from heat, moisture, and light. Keep away from open flames. Store this and
all medications out of the reach of children. |
Medical News
|
