Drug Uses

Retin-A is a treatment used to improve skin looks. It influences both deep and superficial parts of the skin, and produce mild peeling effect. Major benefit of this medication is that it is decreasing the effects of sunlight caused aging, by increasing replacing speed of surface cells.

How Taken

Thin layer of Retin-A should be applied to affected area once daily, preferably before bedtime. Liquid should be applied by gauze or cotton swab. Your hands need to be washed immediately after application. Using Retin-A more frequently would not increase the results, but rather side effects. Sensitive skin can be irritated by Retin-A, so applying this medication to areas near eyes, mouth or open cuts is not recommended. It may take up to six weeks before full benefits of this medication are seen. Do not wash your face excessively, and use a mild soap. Cleansers, medicated creams, lotions or abrasive soaps may increase skin irritation.

Warnings/Precautions

Using Retin-A may increase sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Prolonged exposure to these conditions should be avoided. During pregnancy Retin-A may be used only when clearly needed, and since it is not known if it appears in breast milk doctor consultations are needed when breast feeding.

Missed Dose

Missed dose should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it's about time for next dose. If so next scheduled dose should be taken, and doses shouldn't be doubled to catch up.

Possible Side Effects

It is advisable to begin treatment on a small area of the skin, due to the possibility of irritation. Exposure to sun or ultraviolet light may cause additional irritation. Sun contact should be avoided during the treatment and a sun protection should be used. Worsening of the problem may appear during first few weeks of treatment, due to elimination of small cysts deep within the skin.

Storage

Retin-A should be kept in a dark place, away from the reach of children at a room temperature.

Overdose

Excessive usage of Retin-A will not cause better results, instead it may cause redness, peeling or discomfort. Overdose symptoms include transient headache, facial flushing, celosias, abdominal pain, dizziness and ataxia.

More Information

You should wait until skin rash caused by keratolytic preparations or exfoliants passes before starting even an low strength treatment. Effect on pregnancy is not yet fully known, and so Retin-A treatment should always be performed under doctor's supervision.

Disclaimer

Information presented on this page is for informational purposes only. This information doesn't cover all interactions, precautions or adverse effects of treatment with this medicament. We disclaim all responsibility for any consequences, which may arise while taking this drug without proper consultation with doctor or pharmacist. We give no warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.