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RETIN-A (tretinoin
gel 0.1%) is proven to reduce the severity of acne vulgaris in effected
patients. Seen most commonly in adolescents, but also seen in older
patients as well, true acne involves the formation of comedones (large
deep seeded pus filled pimples) that resolve slowly leaving behind a deep
scar. RETIN-A can significantly reduce the severity of these
lesions.
HOW DOES RETIN-A WORK?
Evidence suggests that
RETIN-A acts primarily by modifying the abnormal keratinization
(formation of the superficial layer of skin) located around hair
follicles. Comedones (large deep seeded pus filled pimples) form in
follicles with an excess of keratinized superficial skin cells. RETIN-A
promotes the detachment of these excess cells and the enhanced shedding of
these cells from the follicular base. Through this action, comedo contents
are emptied and the formation of new comedones is significantly reduced.
HOW TO USE THIS
MEDICATION:
Apply a thin layer to
affected areas at bedtime. Use a gauze pad or cotton swab to apply the
liquid. Wash your hands immediately after use. Using this medication more
frequently or in excessive amounts does not improve the results, but may
increase side effects. Avoid applying near the eyes, mouth, or open cuts
since this medication can irritate sensitive skin. Acne may appear to
worsen when the medication is first used; continue therapy. It may take
three to six weeks before the full benefits of this medication are seen.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS RETIN-A?
In a number of different
clinical studies RETIN-A was significantly superior to a control
gel in decreasing comedo count. Taken together approximately 25% of
patients achieved superior results with the use of this medication.
RETIN-A AND ROGAINE?
Yes, when applied topically
to the scalp RETIN-A can induce hair regrowth and significantly
augment the activity of ROGAINE.
It is postulated that this
effect is due to increased absorption of ROGAINE through the scalp by an
alteration of the stratum corneum (superficial layer) barrier. One study
demonstrated that 0.05% RETIN-A tripled the absorption of
ROGAINE locally over effected areas, when compared with a control
drug.
CAN I USE COSMETICS IF I
AM ALSO USING RETIN-A?
Cosmetics may be used, but
clean skin thoroughly before applying RETIN-A.
USE DURING PREGNANCY:
RETIN-A is applied to
the skin. Usually, less than 10% of RETIN-A passes into the
mother's bloodstream, and even less reaches the baby. Broken skin, using
more than is needed on an area, or use on a large area will cause more of
the RETIN-A to pass through the skin. In general, the less
RETIN-A that is used on the mother's skin, the less likely there will
be risks to the baby.
Several studies have tried
to find out the effects of RETIN-A on pregnancy. These studies have
not found that babies whose mothers used RETIN-A during pregnancy
are any more likely to have birth defects than babies whose mothers did
not use RETIN-A.
Nonetheless, it may be best
to reserve RETIN-A use during pregnancy for only the most severe
cases of Acne Vulgaris. Even then, it should be used with extreme caution.
SIDE EFFECTS:
Immediately after applying,
the skin may feel warm or mild stinging or redness may occur. Some peeling
of the skin may occur. These effects should subside as your skin adjusts
to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, stop the
medication. This medicine may also increase sun sensitivity. RETIN-A
may also cause itchiness and scaling of the skin. This can sometimes be
very extreme depending on the individual. Most people will experience some
itching or scaling if too much RETIN-A is applied.
CAUTIONS:
This medication can increase
sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold. Avoid prolonged exposure to the
sun and sunlamps. Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen.
This medication should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed. It
is not known if RETIN-A appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor
before breast-feeding. Use mild soap when washing your face. Do not wash
face excessively. Abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions
can increase skin irritation. Use other acne preparations with caution
while using RETIN-A.
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