Acitretin

Acitretin is a capsule that you take by mouth and it works as follows:- 

Acitretin is a medication similar to tretinoin that works on a part of cells called the retinoic acid receptor (RAR). It's a type of retinoid, which are related to vitamin A and control many processes in the body like growth, reproduction, and immune function. Acitretin helps with skin conditions by changing how skin cells grow and by affecting the immune system. While the exact way it works isn't fully understood, it's known to influence how cells in the skin develop and also affect the immune response.

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Primary uses are to treat Lymphoma, cutaneous T-cell3

Research studies are going on this drug to check if this medicine can be used to treat other type of cancer. 

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If you miss a dose of acitretin, take it as soon as you can if it is within 12 hours of the missed dose. If it is more than 12 hours since your missed dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your usual dosing times.

 

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dry lips and cheilitis, dry skin, hair loss, scaling of palms and soles, nosebleeds, high fat levels in the blood.

 

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Tell your doctor if you are taking Methotrexate, Phenytoin, Tretinoin, Isotretinoin, tetracycline-like antibiotics, some birth control pills, and vitamin A preparations or any other drugs as you may need extra blood tests or your dose may need to be changed.

 

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Acitretin may harm the baby if used during pregnancy. Severe birth defects or death to the unborn baby may occur. Discuss birth control with your doctor before starting treatment. Two forms of reliable birth control must be used at the same time during treatment and for 2-3 years after your last dose of acitretin. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. Do not breast feed during treatment.

Men who are taking acitretin must use a condom every time they have sex with a female partner who is able to bear children. This is because it is not known if the drug is present in semen. Tell your doctor right away if your partner becomes pregnant.

For women of childbearing potential: Do not drink of alcohol while you are taking acitretin and for 2 months after your last dose of acitretin.

For men: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while you are taking acitretin and for 2 months after your last dose of acitretin. Discuss the safety of drinking alcohol while taking acitretin with your doctor.

 

Have any queries, book a consultation with our Oncology Clinical Specialist