WARNING

Taking Acitretin involves several risks:

• Birth Defects: Acitretin is highly teratogenic and can cause severe birth defects. Women must avoid pregnancy during and for several years after stopping the medication.
• Liver Damage: It can affect liver function, necessitating regular liver function tests.
• Elevated Blood Lipids: It may raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels, increasing cardiovascular risk.
• Skin Sensitivity: Increases sensitivity to sunlight, leading to a higher risk of sunburn.
• Dryness: Causes significant dryness of the skin, lips, and eyes.
• Mental Health Effects: May cause mood changes or depression.
• Bone and Joint Pain: Some people experience discomfort in bones or joints.

Regular monitoring and adherence to precautions can help manage these risks effectively.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Acitretin is primarily prescribed to treat severe psoriasis, a chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches. It is an oral retinoid, which means it’s derived from vitamin A, and works by normalizing the growth cycle of skin cells.

How should this medicine be used?

Acitretin should be used exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: Take Acitretin exactly as directed by your doctor. The dosage may vary depending on your condition and response to the medication. It is usually taken once daily with a meal to improve absorption.
• Duration: The treatment duration can vary. Some people might use it for several months, but it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and not stop the medication prematurely.
• Pregnancy Prevention: For women of childbearing age, strict measures must be taken to prevent pregnancy while on Acitretin. You may need to use two forms of contraception and undergo regular pregnancy tests.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor for side effects and ensure the medication is working as intended. Blood tests may be required to check liver function and lipid levels.
• Avoiding Sun Exposure: Acitretin can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. It’s advisable to use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when exposed to the sun.
• Side Effects: Be aware of possible side effects such as dry skin, lips, eyes, and nosebleeds. Report any severe or unusual symptoms to your healthcare provider promptly.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized instructions and guidance on using Acitretin.

Other uses for this medicine

• Severe forms of acne: Particularly in cases where other treatments, like oral antibiotics, have been ineffective.
• Certain types of keratosis: For instance, actinic keratosis, which involves rough, scaly patches on the skin caused by sun damage.
• Lichen Planus: A condition characterized by itchy, flat-topped bumps on the skin.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Acitretin:

• Pregnancy and Birth Control: Acitretin is highly teratogenic (can cause birth defects). Women must avoid pregnancy during treatment and for at least three years after stopping the medication. This means using effective birth control methods and possibly taking additional precautions.
• Liver Function: Regular liver function tests are necessary, as Acitretin can affect liver health.
• Blood Lipids: Acitretin can raise cholesterol and triglyceride levels, so periodic blood tests are important.
• Sun Sensitivity: The medication can increase sensitivity to sunlight, so it’s crucial to use sunscreen and protective clothing when outdoors.
• Alcohol Consumption: Avoid drinking alcohol while on Acitretin, as it can increase the risk of liver toxicity and other side effects.
• Other Medications: Inform your doctor about all other medications you’re taking, as Acitretin can interact with certain drugs.
• Mental Health: Be aware of potential mood changes or mental health effects and report any severe mood swings or depression to your healthcare provider.
• Skin Care: Moisturize regularly and use gentle skin care products to help manage dryness and irritation.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and attend scheduled appointments to monitor for potential side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Fat Intake: Acitretin should be taken with food, particularly with a meal that contains fat. This helps with absorption of the medication. There are no specific dietary restrictions beyond the need to take Acitretin with food.
• Avoid Alcohol: As mentioned, avoid alcohol consumption while on Acitretin to reduce the risk of liver problems and other side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular scheduled time. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you have any questions or concerns about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for specific advice related to your treatment plan.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Acitretin can cause a range of side effects, some of which may require medical attention. Common and less severe side effects include:

• Dry Skin: Skin may become dry and peeling.
• Dry Lips: Chapped lips are common.
• Dry Eyes and Nose: This can lead to discomfort and nosebleeds.
• Itching or Rash: Skin irritation or itching might occur.
• Hair Loss: Some people experience thinning or loss of hair.
• Headache: Mild headaches can occur.

More serious side effects include:

• Liver Problems: Symptoms like jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or severe abdominal pain may indicate liver issues.
• Elevated Blood Lipids: Increased cholesterol or triglyceride levels can lead to cardiovascular problems.
• Severe Mood Changes: Depression, anxiety, or unusual mood swings can occur.
• Vision Changes: Blurred vision or other eye issues may happen.
• Bone and Joint Pain: Some people experience pain or discomfort in their bones or joints.
• Pancreatitis: Symptoms include severe abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: This may include symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

If you experience any severe or unusual symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Regular follow-ups and blood tests are important to monitor for potential side effects and adjust the treatment as needed.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Acitretin:

• Storage:
  • Temperature: Store Acitretin at room temperature, typically between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
  • Container: Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from moisture and light.
• Disposal:
  • Medications: Do not flush Acitretin down the toilet or pour it into a drain. Dispose of it properly to avoid contamination of water sources.
  • Disposal Programs: Check if your community has a drug take-back program or follow local guidelines for disposal of medications. Some pharmacies and local waste disposal programs may offer safe disposal options.
  • Disposal in Household Trash: If no take-back programs are available, you may dispose of Acitretin in household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or cat litter) and placing it in a sealed plastic bag before throwing it away.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, such as severe dizziness, fainting, or other serious reactions, seek immediate medical attention.
• Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center or emergency services for advice on what to do in the case of an overdose. Provide details about the medication, dosage, and time of ingestion if possible.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Keep up with regular appointments and blood tests as recommended by your healthcare provider to monitor for side effects and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your full medical history, including any liver conditions, mental health issues, or other chronic diseases.
• Pregnancy: Ensure you are following strict contraceptive measures if you are a woman of childbearing age to prevent pregnancy during and after treatment.
• Drug Interactions: Discuss all other medications and supplements you are taking with your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions.
• Side Effects Awareness: Be aware of potential side effects and contact your healthcare provider if you notice any severe or unusual symptoms.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions and guidelines for your treatment with Acitretin.