Tretinoin (Topical)

Brand Names : Avita, Renova, Retin-A, Retin-A MICRO, Retisol-A, Stieva-A, Stieva-A Forte, Vitamin A Acid, Vitinoin, retinoic acid

Proper Use of This Medicine

It is very important that you use this medicine only as directed . Do not use more of it, do not use it more often, and do not use it for a longer time than your doctor ordered. To do so may cause irritation of the skin.

Do not apply this medicine to windburned or sunburned skin or on open wounds .

Do not use this medicine in or around the eyes or lips, or inside of the nose . Spread the medicine away from these areas when applying. If the medicine accidentally gets on these areas, wash with water at once.

This medicine usually comes with patient directions. Read them carefully before using the medicine.

Before applying tretinoin, wash the skin with a mild soap or cleanser and warm water by using the tips of your fingers. Then gently pat dry. Do not scrub your face with a sponge or washcloth. Wait 20 to 30 minutes before applying this medicine to make sure the skin is completely dry . Applying tretinoin to wet skin can irritate the skin.

To use the cream or gel form of this medicine:

• Apply just enough medicine to very lightly cover the affected areas, and rub in gently but well. A pea-sized amount is enough to cover the whole face.

To use the solution form of this medicine:

• Using your fingertips, a gauze pad, or a cotton swab, apply enough tretinoin solution to cover the affected areas. If you use a gauze pad or a cotton swab for applying the medicine, avoid getting it too wet. This will help prevent the medicine from running into areas not intended for treatment.

After applying the medicine, wash your hands to remove any medicine that might remain on them.

Dosing - The dose of topical tretinoin will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average dose of topical tretinoin. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

• For topical dosage forms (cream, gel, or solution):
  • For acne:
    • Adults and teenagers - Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin once a day, at bedtime.
• For cream dosage form (brand name Renova only):
  • For fine wrinkles, dark spots, or rough skin caused by the sun:
    • Adults up to 50 years of age - Apply to the affected area(s) of the skin once a day, at bedtime.
    • Adults 50 years of age and older - Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose - If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage - To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light. The gel product is flammable and should be kept away from fire or excessive heat.
• Keep the medicine from freezing.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.