Tretinoin, Topical



Altinac™; AvitaŽ; RenovaŽ; Retin-AŽ; Retin-AŽ Micro







Tretinoin, Topical

(TRET i noyn, TOP i kal)

U.S. Brand Names
Altinac™; AvitaŽ; RenovaŽ; Retin-AŽ; Retin-AŽ Micro
Canadian Brand Names
Rejuva-AŽ; Retin-AŽ; Retin-AŽ Micro; RetinovaŽ
Pharmacologic Category
Retinoic Acid Derivative
Reasons not to take this medicine
  • If you have an allergy to tretinoin or any other part of this medicine.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other symptoms involved.
  • If you are sunburned.
What is this medicine used for?
  • This medicine is used to treat acne.
  • This medicine is used to treat sun damaged skin and some skin cancers.
  • This medicine is used to decrease wrinkles and liver spots. It may take 6 weeks to see the full effect.
How does it work?
  • Tretinoin, topical increases cell turnover and allows the top layer of skin to peel off. It may take up to 7 weeks to see the full effects.
How is it best taken?
  • Do not take this medicine by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
  • Apply at bedtime.
  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • Clean affected area before use. Make sure to dry well.
  • Wait 30 minutes before use.
  • Apply a thin layer to the affected skin and rub in gently.
  • Practice good skin care and sun avoidance.
What do I do if I miss a dose? (does not apply to patients in the hospital)
  • Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
  • If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule.
  • Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.
What are the precautions when taking this medicine?
  • If you have eczema, talk with healthcare provider.
  • Skin may look worse before it looks better.
  • Avoid cigarette smoking.
  • Check medicines with healthcare provider. This medicine may not mix well with other medicines.
  • You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid sun, sunlamps, and tanning beds. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.
  • Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are pregnant or plan on getting pregnant.
  • Tell healthcare provider if you are breast-feeding.
What are some possible side effects of this medicine?
  • Short-term discomfort after use.
  • Skin irritation.
  • Sunburn.
What should I monitor?
  • Change in condition being treated. Is it better, worse, or about the same?
  • Follow up with healthcare provider.
Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately
  • If you suspect an overdose, call your local poison control center immediately or dial 911.
  • Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
  • Severe skin irritation.
  • No improvement in condition or feeling worse.
How should I store this medicine?
  • Store at room temperature.
  • Protect gel from heat.
General statements
  • If you have a life-threatening allergy, wear allergy identification at all times.
  • Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
  • Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, natural products, supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, nurse practitioner, pharmacist, physician assistant).
  • Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter, natural products, or vitamins.
Brand Names: