ALITRETINOIN GEL - TOPICAL

ALITRETINOIN GEL - TOPICAL

PHONETIC PRONUNCIATION: (AL-i-TRET-i-noyn)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Panretin

GENERIC NAME(S): alitretinoin

Uses

USES: This medication is used to treat skin sores in patients with a certain type of AIDS-related cancer (Kaposi's sarcoma). Alitretinoin belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. It works by affecting the growth of skin cells. This medication should not be used when medications taken by mouth are needed to treat the Kaposi's sarcoma (e.g., more than 10 new skin sores in the previous month, disease affects the lungs or other organs).


How to use ALITRETINOIN GEL - TOPICAL

HOW TO USE: Use this medication on the skin only. Wait at least 20 minutes after bathing or showering before applying the medication. Apply enough medication to cover the skin sore(s) well, usually 2 to 4 times daily or as directed by your doctor. It is not necessary to rub the medication into the sore. Allow 3 to 5 minutes for the medication to dry before covering the affected area with clothing. Do not apply the medication on unaffected skin because doing so may cause increased irritation. Do not apply the medication in or around the eyes, nose, mouth, anus, vagina, or tip of the penis. If you do get the medication in those areas, flush with plenty of water. Wash your hands after using, unless you are using this medication to treat the hands. Do not bathe, shower, or swim for at least 3 hours after using the medication. Do not wrap, cover, or bandage the affected area unless directed to do so by your doctor. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, use it at the same times each day. Do not apply other skin products, except mineral oil, on the treated sores. You may apply mineral oil at least 2 hours before or after applying this medication to help prevent skin dryness/itching. Since this drug is absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication. Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens. You should start to see an improvement in your skin condition in as little as 2 weeks of treatment, but it may take up to 14 weeks of treatment to see the benefit.

Side Effects

SIDE EFFECTS: Redness, rash, pain, burning, itching, stinging, or tingling at the application site may occur. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medication because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects. Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: blistering/crusting/oozing/peeling of the skin, severe burning/stinging of the skin, swelling of the skin. A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist. In the US - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch. In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

PRECAUTIONS: Before using alitretinoin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to vitamin A-related drugs (other retinoids such as isotretinoin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: a certain type of cancer (skin T-cell lymphoma). This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Since this drug is absorbed through the skin and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Because of the possible risk to the infant, breast-feeding is not recommended while using this drug. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Your doctor or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicine before checking with your doctor or pharmacist first. This drug should not be used with the following products because very serious interactions may occur: products containing DEET (e.g., some insect repellents). If you are currently using the products listed above, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting alitretinoin. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use. This document does not contain all possible interactions. Therefore, before using this product, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist.

Overdose

OVERDOSE: This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

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PANRETIN 0.1% GEL

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Faq for ALITRETINOIN GEL - TOPICAL

Alitretinoin gel is used to treat a skin condition called Kaposi's sarcoma. It is specifically used for treating lesions on the hands and feet in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).

Alitretinoin is a retinoid, which means it affects the growth of skin cells. It works by inhibiting the growth of abnormal skin cells in Kaposi's sarcoma lesions, helping to improve the condition.

You should apply a thin layer of alitretinoin gel to the affected areas of the hands and feet. Rub it in gently until it is completely absorbed. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying the gel.

The recommended dosing regimen for alitretinoin gel is twice daily (morning and evening) for up to 24 weeks. However, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of treatment.

Common side effects of alitretinoin gel include pain, itching, dryness, redness, and peeling of the skin at the application site. You may also experience headache, hair loss, and muscle or joint pain. If you experience severe side effects or allergic reactions, seek medical attention immediately.

It is important to consult with your doctor or pharmacist before using other skincare products or medications while using alitretinoin gel. Some products may interact with alitretinoin gel and affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.

Alitretinoin gel should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause harm to the unborn baby. It is important to discuss reliable birth control methods with your doctor before starting treatment with alitretinoin gel.

Alitretinoin gel may pass into breast milk and could harm a nursing baby. It is recommended to consult with your doctor before using alitretinoin gel while breastfeeding to weigh the potential benefits and risks.

If you miss a dose, apply it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. It is not advisable to apply a double dose to make up for a missed one.



Disclaimer

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.