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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 - TOPICAL (tret-ih-NO-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S):
Retin-A
USES: This medication
is used in the treatment of acne. It reduces the formation
of pimples and promotes quick healing of pimples that
do develop.
HOW TO USE: Patient
instructions are available with the product. Read
them carefully before using. Apply a thin layer to
affected area at bedtime. Use a gauze pad or cotton
swab to apply the liquid. Wash 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. Even though 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.
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,
inform your doctor. This medicine may also increase
sun sensitivity. Notify your doctor if you experience:
blistering, crusting, redness, severe burning or swelling
of the skin. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
PRECAUTIONS: 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. Use mild soap when washing your face. Do
not wash face excessively. Abrasive soaps, cleansers,
medicated creams or lotions can increase skin irritation.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist about their use.
Use other acne preparations with caution while using
this medication. This medication should be used only
when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the
risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known
if this medication passes into breast milk. Consult
your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription
drugs you may use. 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: Cosmetics
may be used, but clean skin thoroughly before applying
the medication.
MISSED DOSE: If you
miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not
use if it is almost time for the next dose, instead,
skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing
schedule. Do not "double-up" the dose to
catch up.
STORAGE: Store at
room temperature away from sunlight.
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