What is Alitretinoin Topical?
Alitretinoin is a topical retinoid. Alitretinoin affects the growth and development of skin cells.
Alitretinoin topical is used to treat skin lesions caused by AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma.
Alitretinoin topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about Alitretinoin Topical?
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Alitretinoin topical may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.
Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical. There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used with alitretinoin topical.
Do not cover the treated lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a dressing that does not allow air to circulate to the area).
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Alitretinoin Topical?
Before using alitretinoin topical, tell your doctor if you have cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. You may not be able to use alitretinoin topical, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment.
Alitretinoin topical is the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that alitretinoin topical may be harmful to an unborn baby. Alitretinoin topical has caused birth defects in animal studies. Do not use alitretinoin topical without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
It is not known whether alitretinoin topical passes into breast milk. Do not use alitretinoin topical without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
Alitretinoin Topical Side Effects
What are the possible side effects of Alitretinoin Topical?
Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using alitretinoin topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your lips, face, or tongue; or hives).
If you experience any of the following less serious side effects at the application site(s), continue to use alitretinoin topical and notify your doctor
- redness
- itching
- irritation
- warmth
- burning, stinging, or pain
- rash
- peeling
- swelling or inflammation
- numbness or tingling
- cracking, crusting, or scabbing; or
- drainage
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
Alitretinoin Topical Interactions
What other drugs affect Alitretinoin Topical?
Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical. There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used with alitretinoin topical.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with alitretinoin topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines.
What should I avoid while taking Alitretinoin Topical?
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Alitretinoin topical may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.
Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical. There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used with alitretinoin topical.
Do not cover the treated lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a dressing that does not allow air to circulate to the area).
Alitretinoin Topical Dosage
How should I take Alitretinoin Topical?
Use alitretinoin topical exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.
Apply enough gel to cover the lesion with a generous coating. Allow the gel to dry for 3 to 5 minutes before covering the area with clothing.
Do not apply alitretinoin topical to normal skin surrounding a lesion. Also, do not apply alitretinoin topical on or near mucosal surfaces of the body such as the inside of the nose or mouth.
Do not cover the treated lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a dressing that does not allow air to circulate to the area).
Alitretinoin topical is usually applied two to four times a day. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Store alitretinoin topical at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I overdose on Alitretinoin Topical?
An overdose of this medication is unlikely to occur. If you do suspect an overdose, or if alitretinoin topical has been ingested, call an emergency room or poison control center for advice.
What happens if I miss a dose of Alitretinoin Topical?
Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
Edited from everydayhealth.com