Alitretinoin topical

Brand name(s):
panretin

What is the most important information I should know about alitretinoin
topical?
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Alitretinoin topical
may increase the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen
and wear protective clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common
component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical.
There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used
with alitretinoin topical.
Do not cover the treated lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a
dressing that does not allow air to circulate to the area).
What is alitretinoin topical?

Alitretinoin is a topical retinoid. Alitretinoin affects
the growth and development of skin cells.

Alitretinoin topical is used to treat skin lesions caused
by AIDS-related Kaposi’s sarcoma.

Alitretinoin topical may also be used for purposes other than those listed
in this medication guide.
Who should not use alitretinoin topical?

Before using alitretinoin topical, tell your doctor if you have cutaneous
T-cell lymphoma. You may not be able to use alitretinoin topical, or you
may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during your treatment.
Alitretinoin topical is the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that
alitretinoin topical may be harmful to an unborn baby. Alitretinoin topical
has caused birth defects in animal studies. Do not use alitretinoin topical
without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become
pregnant during treatment. It is not known whether alitretinoin topical
passes into breast milk. Do not use alitretinoin topical without first
talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I use alitretinoin topical?

Use alitretinoin topical exactly as directed by your
doctor. If you do not understand these instructions, ask your pharmacist,
nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Wash your hands before and after applying this medication.

Apply enough gel to cover the lesion with a generous coating. Allow the
gel to dry for 3 to 5 minutes before covering the area with clothing.
Do not apply alitretinoin topical to normal skin surrounding a lesion.
Also, do not apply alitretinoin topical on or near mucosal surfaces of
the body such as the inside of the nose or mouth. Do not cover the treated
lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a dressing that does not
allow air to circulate to the area).

Alitretinoin topical is usually applied two to four
times a day. Follow your doctor’s instructions.
Store alitretinoin topical at room temperature away from moisture and
heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?

Apply the missed dose as soon as you remember.
What should I avoid while using alitretinoin topical?
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight. Alitretinoin topical may increase
the sensitivity of the skin to sunlight. Use a sunscreen and wear protective
clothing when exposure to the sun is unavoidable.

Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common
component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical.
There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used
with alitretinoin topical.
Do not cover the treated lesions with any type of occlusive dressing (a
dressing that does not allow air to circulate to the area).
What are the possible side effects of alitretinoin topical?
Serious side effects are not likely to occur. Stop using alitretinoin
topical and seek emergency medical attention if you experience an allergic
reaction (shortness of breath; closing of your throat; swelling of your
lips, face, or tongue; or hives).

If you experience any of the following less serious side effects at the
application site(s), continue to use alitretinoin topical and notify your
doctor

* redness;
* itching;
* irritation;
* warmth;
* burning, stinging, or pain;
* rash;
* peeling;
* swelling or inflammation;
* numbness or tingling;
* cracking, crusting, or scabbing; or
* drainage.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your
doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially
bothersome.
What other drugs will affect alitretinoin topical?
Do not use products that contain DEET (N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide), a common
component of insect repellent products, while using alitretinoin topical.
There is an increased risk of harmful effects from DEET when it is used
with alitretinoin topical.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with alitretinoin
topical. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription
or over-the-counter medicines.
Where can I get more information?

Your pharmacist has additional information about alitretinoin topical
written for health professionals that you may read.
What does my medication look like?

Alitretinoin topical is available with a prescription
under the brand name panretin. Other brand or generic
formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions
you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

* panretin-0.1% gel