Drug Info:
Alitretinoin
Brand names: Panretin™
- Español:
- Gel de alitretinoína para la piel
Alitretinoin skin gel
What is alitretinoin skin gel?
ALITRETINOIN (Panretin®) is a naturally occurring form of vitamin A. It is applied to the skin to treat Kaposi's sarcoma lesions. This gel does not treat lung or intestinal Kaposi's sarcoma or prevent the appearance of new skin lesions. An oral form of alitretinoin is under investigation for the treatment of Kaposi's sarcoma, breast cancer, multiple myeloma, prostate cancer and other diseases. Generic alitretinoin gel is not yet available.What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:• an unusual or allergic reaction to alitretinoin, vitamin A, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
• pregnant or trying to get pregnant
• breast-feeding
How should I use this medicine?
Open the tube by puncturing the metal seal with the pointed portion of the cap. Do not use if the metal seal has been punctured or is not present when you first open the package.Alitretinoin is for external use only; do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. Wait 20 minutes after a shower or bath before applying alitretinoin gel. Apply a generous coating to the lesions. Do not rub the gel into the lesion. Allow the gel to dry for 3—5 minutes before covering with clothing. Try to avoid contact of the gel with unaffected skin around the lesions; this will decrease irritation and redness. Wipe your finger(s) you have used to apply the gel with a throw-away tissue and wash your hands using soap and water.
Contact your pediatrician or health care professional regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
Apply as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, apply only that dose. Do not use more often than directed by your prescriber or health care professional.What drug(s) may interact with alitretinoin?
• insect repellents that contain DEETTell your prescriber or other health care professional about all other medicines you are taking including non-prescription medicines, nutritional supplements, or herbal products. Also, tell your prescriber or health care professional if you are a frequent user of drinks with caffeine or alcohol, if you smoke or if you use illegal drugs. These may affect the way your medicine works. Check before stopping or starting any of your medications.
What should I watch for while taking alitretinoin?
It may take several weeks before you see the full beneficial effect. Kaposi's sarcoma lesions can appear and affect other parts of your body including the lungs and intestines. You should continue to visit your prescriber or health care professional on a regular basis to monitor your progress.Do not use alitretinoin gel if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Precautions should be taken to avoid becoming pregnant while using alitretinoin gel.
Do not cover lesions treated with alitretinoin gel with any bandage or material other than loose clothing. Avoid the use of other topical products on the treated Kaposi's sarcoma lesions. Mineral oil may be used in between applications in order to prevent excessive dryness or itching. Do not apply mineral oil for at least 2 hours before or after applying alitretinoin gel. Try not to scratch treated areas.
Alitretinoin can increase sensitivity of the skin to sun or UV light. Keep out of the sun, or wear protective clothing outdoors and use a sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher). Do not use sun lamps or sun tanning beds or booths.
Wait at least 3 hours after any application before showering, bathing, or swimming.
Do not get alitretinoin in the eyes, inside the nose, mouth, lips, or any other sensitive areas of skin.
What side effects may I notice from using alitretinoin?
Side effects that you should report to your prescriber or health care professional as soon as possible:• signs of infection such as drainage, swelling, or pus formation
• vesicle formation
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your prescriber or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
• increased sensitivity to the sun
• burning, itching, crusting, or cracking of the treated areas
• mild stinging
• rawness
• red, inflamed, and irritated skin, the skin may peel after a few days
Where can I keep my medicine?
Keep out of the reach of children.Store the gel at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F) and do not freeze. Keep away from heat and flame. Protect from light.
Last updated: 7/1/2002
Important Disclaimer: The drug information provided here is for educational purposes only. It is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the diagnosis, treatment and advice of a medical professional. This drug information does not cover all possible uses, precautions, side effects and interactions. It should not be construed to indicate that this or any drug is safe for you. Consult your medical professional for guidance before using any prescription or over the counter drugs.
