Tretinoin
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Retinoid
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Tretinoin
Learn more about this medicine -
Click HereSummary
Tretinoin is used to treat a type of cancer called acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), which is characterized by too many immature blood cells. It's typically used when other chemotherapy treatments haven't worked.
Tretinoin works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells. It helps these cells to develop into normal blood cells. This drug is a type of retinoid, which means it affects the growth of cells and tissues in the body.
The recommended dosage of Tretinoin for adults and children over 1 year of age is 22.5 mg/m2, taken orally twice daily. Treatment usually continues until complete remission is documented or for a maximum of 90 days. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage.
Common side effects of Tretinoin include headache, fever, skin dryness, bone pain, and nausea/vomiting. Some patients also experience changes in appetite, mood changes, insomnia, and gastrointestinal issues. In some cases, Tretinoin can cause severe side effects like dizziness, severe headaches, and confusion.
Tretinoin should not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of birth defects. Also, avoid using it with certain medications and supplements like Vitamin A and antifibrinolytic agents. It's important to always inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking to prevent potential interactions.
Indications and Purpose
How does one know if Tretinoin is working?
The benefit of Tretinoin is evaluated through regular monitoring by healthcare professionals. This includes checking for remission of acute promyelocytic leukemia symptoms and monitoring for side effects. Regular blood tests and clinical assessments help ensure the treatment is effective and safe.
How does Tretinoin work?
Tretinoin works by inducing the differentiation of immature blood cells into normal, mature cells. It decreases the proliferation of cancer cells in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), helping to achieve remission. The exact mechanism is not fully understood, but it involves altering gene expression to promote cell maturation.
Is Tretinoin effective?
Tretinoin has been evaluated in clinical studies involving patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). It has shown effectiveness in inducing remission in both previously treated and untreated patients. The median time to complete remission was between 40 and 50 days, demonstrating its efficacy in treating APL.
What is Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is used to treat acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), a type of cancer with too many immature blood cells. It works by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells, causing them to develop into normal blood cells. Tretinoin is a retinoid and is typically used when other chemotherapy treatments have not been effective.
What is Tretinoin used for?
Tretinoin is indicated for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), characterized by the presence of the t(15;17) translocation or PML/RARα gene expression. It is used in patients who are refractory to or have relapsed from anthracycline chemotherapy or for whom such chemotherapy is contraindicated.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Tretinoin?
Tretinoin is typically used for up to 90 days or until complete remission of acute promyelocytic leukemia is achieved. The exact duration may vary based on individual response and medical advice.
How do I take Tretinoin?
Take Tretinoin capsules with a meal, swallowing them whole with water. Do not chew, dissolve, or open the capsules. Consult your doctor about any specific food restrictions, such as grapefruit, which may interact with the medication.
How long does it take for Tretinoin to start working?
Tretinoin typically starts working within the first month of treatment, with the median time to complete remission being between 40 and 50 days. However, individual responses may vary, and regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential.
How should I store Tretinoin?
Store Tretinoin capsules at room temperature, between 20ºC to 25ºC (68ºF to 77ºF). Keep the bottle tightly closed and protect it from light. Ensure it is out of reach of children and dispose of it properly through a take-back program if no longer needed.
What is the usual dose of Tretinoin?
The recommended dosage of Tretinoin for adults and children over 1 year of age is 22.5 mg/m2 taken orally twice daily. Treatment continues until complete remission is documented, or for a maximum of 90 days. Always follow your doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Tretinoin with other prescription drugs?
Tretinoin interacts with strong CYP3A inhibitors, which can increase its plasma concentration and risk of adverse reactions. Avoid coadministration with strong CYP3A inducers, as they may reduce its efficacy. Also, avoid using it with other products that can cause intracranial hypertension, such as tetracyclines.
Can I take Tretinoin with vitamins or supplements?
Avoid using Vitamin A supplements while taking Tretinoin, as this can lead to Vitamin A-related adverse reactions. Always inform your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking to prevent potential interactions.
Can Tretinoin be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in breastfed infants, women are advised not to breastfeed during treatment with Tretinoin and for 1 week after the last dose. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can Tretinoin be taken safely while pregnant?
Tretinoin is contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of embryo-fetal loss and malformations. It is a retinoid, and exposure during pregnancy increases the risk of major congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions. Females of reproductive potential must use two effective methods of contraception during treatment and for 1 month after the last dose.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Tretinoin?
Tretinoin may cause dizziness or severe headaches, which could limit your ability to exercise safely. If you experience these symptoms, avoid activities that require alertness, such as exercising, until you know how the medication affects you. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Is Tretinoin safe for the elderly?
In clinical studies, 21% of patients were 60 years and older, and no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were observed between these patients and younger patients. However, elderly patients should be monitored closely for side effects, and treatment should be tailored to their specific health needs.
Who should avoid taking Tretinoin?
Tretinoin can cause severe side effects, including embryo-fetal toxicity and differentiation syndrome. It is contraindicated in pregnant women due to the risk of birth defects. Patients should be monitored for symptoms of differentiation syndrome and leukocytosis. Avoid use with certain medications and supplements, such as Vitamin A and anti-fibrinolytic agents.
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