Drug Uses

Retin-A is a medicine that is often used for improvement of the skin's appearance and texture. Retin-A mildly peels the superficial layer of the epidermis. The medicine affects both the superficial (epidermis) and the deep (dermis) layers of the skin. The major benefit of Retin-A however is its effect of sunlight which causes aging of the skin as the medicine enhances the speed with which the surface cells are replaced.

How Taken

A thin layer of the medicine is applied on the affected area once a day. It is recommended that you apply Retin-A before you go to bed. You may use a gauze pad or cotton swab for the application of the liquid. You should wash your hands immediately after you have applied the medicine. A more frequent usage of the medicine and excessive dosage cannot improve the effects, but may enhance the adverse effects. Do not apply it in the eyes, mouth, or open cuts because Retin-A may irritate the skin. Acne may seem to get worse when the medicine is used for the first time but you should not discontinue the treatment. A period of 3-6 weeks may be required before the medicine shows its full results. It is recommended that you use mild soap to wash your face. The irritation of the skin may be enhanced if you use abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions. Talk to your doctor about their usage. Be cautious when using other acne products together with Retin-A.

Warnings/Precautions

Retin-A may enhance the sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Do not expose yourself to the sun and sunlamps for a long period of time. You should wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. It is not recommended to use Retin-A during pregnancy except it is clearly needed. Consult your doctor in case you are breast feeding because it is not clear if the medicine passes into breast milk.

Missed Dose

In case you miss a dose, take the missed tablet as soon as you remember. However, if it is already time for the next scheduled dose, skip the missed one and take the regular dose. Do not take a double dose to catch up the missed one.

Possible Side Effects

It is recommended that the treatment begins on a small skin area because the medicine may cause skin irritation. Additional irritation may be cause by exposure to the sun or to ultraviolet rays. You should avoid such exposures whenever possible or you should use sunscreen when you need to go outside. The treated problem may worsen during the first few weeks of the therapy. This is absolutely normal and happens because the medicine eliminates small cysts deep in the skin at a high rate. Retin-A enhances the sensitivity to wind and cold. You should stop using the medicine if any of its ingredients cause hypersensitivity.

Storage

Retin-A should be stored at a room temperature. Protect it from sunlight. Keep it away from children.

Overdose

Application of excessive amounts of Retin-A will not improved the effects of the medicine but may cause redness, peeling or discomfort. An overdose with other retinoid has been signaled by transient headache, facial flushing, celosias, abdominal pain, dizziness and ataxia.

More Information

In case you have been treated with keratolyc products or exfoliants you should wait all skin rashes to clear up before you start a treatment with Retin-A. Researches on the effects of the medicine on pregnant women are not complete and during pregnancy it should be used only if it its very needed, and the patients should be constantly monitored by a doctor. Skin irritation always occur during a treatment of Retin-A. This indicated effectives of the product in the treatment of acne. The irritation disappears when then the usage of the medicine becomes less frequent. You may use cosmetics but you should clean the skin very well before you apply Retin-A.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.