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IMPORTANT
NOTE: The following information is intended
to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and
judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare
professional. It should not be construed to indicate
that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective
for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
using this drug.
TRETINOIN CREAM (tret-ih-NO-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Renova
USES: This medication
is used to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing
fine lines and wrinkles, reducing roughness and improving
coloration. This can also be used to treat acne.
HOW TO USE: This
medication is for use on the face as directed, usually
once a day at bedtime. Clean and dry your face. Apply
a pea-size amount of cream using just enough to cover
your entire face lightly. Be careful to avoid your
eyes, nostrils and mouth. Wash your hands after use.
Do not use this more often than prescribed or in large
amounts. It will not give you faster or better results
but will increase the risk of side effects. Do not
use on sunburn or eczema or other serious skin conditions.
Effects of this medication will be gradual with most
improvement seen in the first 6 months of continued
therapy. If used for acne the condition may worsen
at first, then improve.
SIDE EFFECTS: You may experience mild redness
or stinging, itching, burning, skin scaling, peeling
and dry skin the first several weeks as your body
adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects
continue or become severe, discontinue use and notify
your doctor. Report any of the following serious effects:
blisters/crusting or swelling of skin, darkening or
lightening of skin color. If you notice other effects
not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking this medication
tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing skin
disorders or if you have any allergies. This medication
increases your sensitivity to the sun. Limit sun exposure
and avoid sun lamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective
clothing when outdoors. This medication should be
used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss
the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is unknown
if this drug is excreted into breast milk. Consult
with your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Tell
your doctor of any nonprescription or prescription
medication you may take including isotretinoin, amiodarone,
tetracyclines or quinolone antibiotics, sulfa-drugs
or phenothiazines as they increase skin sensitivity
to the sun. Also minoxidil and any skin medication,
soaps, cleansers, cosmetics, astringents or any facial
products that may be drying or irritating (e.g., alcohol-containing
facial products). Benzoyl peroxide should not be applied
at the same time as this medication. Do not start
or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist
approval.
OVERDOSE: If overdose
is suspected, contact your local poison control center
or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be
harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include
excessive redness, peeling, and discomfort.
NOTES: This medication
is not a cosmetic. It is to be used in conjunction
with a comprehensive skin care and sun avoidance program.
MISSED DOSE: If you
miss a dose, apply it as soon as remembered; do not
use it if it is near the time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not "double-up" the amount
used to catch up.
STORAGE: Store this
medication at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15 and 25 degrees C). Do not freeze. Keep this
and all medications out of the reach of children.
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