Tretinoin - generic Retin-A
- is a derivative of vitamin A. Topical tretinoin is used in the treatment of mild to moderate acne and on skin
that has been damaged by excessive exposure to the sun. Retin-A irritates the skin and causes the cells of the skin to grow (divide) and
die more rapidly, that is, tretinoin increases the turnover of cells. The
number of layers of cells in the skin actually is reduced. 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 some wrinkles, areas of darkened skin,
and rough areas of skin, all of which occur in sun-damaged skin. In
patients with sun-damaged skin, improvements in the skin usually are
seen within the first 3 to 4 weeks of treatment with Retin-A. Brown
spots begin to fade after six to eight weeks. Wrinkles decrease or
disappear after three to six months. Following application to the skin,
a minimal amount of drug is absorbed into the body. The FDA approved
topical Tretinoin in 1971.
SIDE EFFECTS: Following the application of tretinoin to the skin,
there often is local inflammation. This reaction disappears when
treatment is stopped. Mild stinging or a sensation of warmth also can
occur when applying tretinoin. Dryness, scaling, and redness occur
frequently. If severe redness, vesicles or crusting develops, a
physician should be notified immediately and tretinoin stopped. It may
be possible to restart therapy with a lower concentration.
Some patients using tretinoin develop an increased sensitivity to
develop sunburn (photosensitivity). Therefore, it is advisable to avoid
exposing treated areas of the skin to excessive sunlight or UV lamps to
reduce the risk of severe sunburn. |
