Drug Uses

 

Retin A 0.05% is a vitamin A derivative that produces a mild superficial peeling effect of the skin. It enhances the speed with which the damaged surface cells are replaced and hence is used to improve the quality and texture of the skin. It is very effective in the effects of sunlight caused aging.

 

How it is taken

The cream is to be applied on the affected area once a day at bedtime. It is recommended that you apply the cream using a cotton gauge or pad. You should wash your hands immediately after using it.

Use only according to the recommended dosage as increasing the dose will only increase the side effects.

The acne on the skin may seem to get worse when you first start using it. But you must continue to use it for the complete duration of the course.

Do not wash your face excessively.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Tretinoin is a derivative of vitamin A that is used in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and to improve the quality of skin that has been damaged by excessive exposure to the sun.

Tretinoin irritates the skin increases the turnover of cells causing them to replace more rapidly.

In patients with acne, new cells replace the cells of existing pimples, and the rapid turnover of cells prevents new pimples from forming.

By a similar mechanism, Tretinoin can reduce wrinkles, areas of darkened skin, and rough areas of skin also which are all caused by sun exposure.

It may take up to 3 to 4 weeks to see an improvement in your condition. It takes a few weeks to reduce brown spots and a few months for wrinkles to deliver. Following application to the skin, a minimal amount of drug is absorbed into the body. The FDA approved topical Tretinoin in 1971.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature (between between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.
 

 

 

Warnings/Precautions

 

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances.

You must not use Retin A if you are allergic to any ingredient in it or are pregnant (after the 3rd month).

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Retin A and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether Retin A is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Retin A may make you more sensitive to the sun so please avoid the sun, sunlamps or a tanning booth until you know how your body reacts to the drug. If you cannot avoid going out in the sun for a long while, then wear protective clothing or use a proper sunscreen.
 

Possible Side Effects

 

Some of the common side effects of are some burning, warmth, stinging, tingling, itching, redness, swelling, dryness, peeling, or irritation, a change in your skin color. Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

 

Other severe side effects an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.