TRETINOIN
Background and Date of Approval
Tretinoin or all-trans retinoic acid is an anticancer medication which was approved for its medical use in 1962.
Uses
Tretinoin is a prescription medicine indicated to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia in patients who did not respond adequately to previous therapies. Its off-label indications include treatment of psoriasis, malignant skin conditions, cutaneous warts and early stretch marks.
How is it administered?
Tretinoin is available in form of Capsules in the dose 10mg. The usual recommended dosing is 45mg/m2/day in two divided doses. Swallow Tretinoin Capsule whole with a glass of water.
Side Effects
The common side effects that are likely to occur while you are on the treatment with Tretinoin Capsule are hair loss, headache, fever, skin dryness, bone pain, nausea, vomiting, sweating, pruritus, bone inflammation and visual disturbances. If you experience any allergic reactions or any other symptoms like shortness of breath, chills, or swelling, report to your doctor immediately.
Warnings
Tretinoin not recommended for patients who are allergic to Tretinoin, or its ingredients. It is essential to let your physician know if you are diagnosed with problems in your kidneys or liver. Your physician will regularly monitor your blood cell count, blood pressure, cholesterol, liver and kidney parameters. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any skin reactions, breathing trouble, unusual headaches, fever, extreme tiredness or weakness.
Precautions
Female patients and female partners of male patients should avoid getting pregnant during this treatment. Tell your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, breastfeeding or planning to have a baby. Discuss effective contraceptive methods with your healthcare practitioner and continue using birth control methods for a month after the final dose of Tretinoin. Do not breastfeed during Tretinoin treatment.
Word of Advice
Avoid driving and operating machines while on treatment with Tretinoin Capsule. Use an effective moisturizer to prevent skin dryness.
References
Par Pharmaceuticals, [Revised on Dec 2020] [Accessed on 13th Oct 2022], https://www.parpharm.com/pdfs/catalog/generic/Tretinoin_PI_20200506.pdf KD Tripathi, Anticancer Drugs, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, 8th Edition, 2019, 915-936. Yoham AL, Casadesus D. Tretinoin. [Updated 2022 Mar 27]. In: StatPearls [Internet], [Accessed on 13th Oct 2022], https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tretinoin a chemotherapy drug?
Azacytidine is a cytotoxic chemotherapy/anti-neoplastic drug that is classified under retinoids.
Is it safe to undergo surgery during treatment with Tretinoin?
Tretinoin might cause unusual bleeding and bruising. Hence, it is advisable to avoid planning for surgery. Discuss with your healthcare provider before you undergo any surgical or dental procedures.
Who should not take Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is not recommended for people who are allergic to Tretinoin, or its ingredients.
What should you do if you vomit after taking Tretinoin?
If you vomit after taking your dose of Tretinoin, take your next dose as per schedule and do not take an additional dose on the same day.
How to store Tretinoin?
Store Tretinoin Capsules at 20-25°C in its original container and keep them away from children.
How does Tretinoin work for blood cancer?
Tretinoin regulates the production of abnormal white blood cells by making them develop normally.
What tests do you need to undergo before starting treatment with Tretinoin?
Before and during treatment with Tretinoin, your healthcare provider will monitor your complete blood count, coagulation profile, blood cholesterol, triglycerides, liver and kidney parameters to check how well your body tolerates this treatment.