How does it work?

This medicine contains the active ingredient tretinoin, which is a form of vitamin A used in the treatment of acne. It is not known exactly how tretinoin works, but it is thought to loosen the cells in the surface of the skin. This helps to unblock pores, so that the skins natural oil producing glands can function normally. In addition, tretinoin increases the turnover of the skin cells, which aids the natural exfoliation of the outer layers of skin. This also helps to unblock pores and decrease the formation of blackheads (comedones) and spots. It may take six to eight weeks before definite beneficial effects on the skin can be seen.

What is it used for?

Acne vulgaris

Warning!

Avoid exposure to sunlight or sunlamps while using this medicine, as it increases the sensitivity of your skin. If exposure to sunlight cannot be avoided, use protective measures such as sun-creams or protective clothing.

This preparation is for external use only.

Acne lesions may appear to get worse in the early stages of treatment. This is due to the action of the medicine on deep, previously unseen comedones and papules.

Weather extremes such as wind or cold may be irritating to the skin while you are using this medicine.

Clean and dry the affected area of skin thoroughly before applying this medicine.

Initial application with this medicine may cause temporary stinging or a feeling of warmth in the skin. If you experience severe redness, peeling, or severe irritation of the skin you should apply the medicine less frequently or stop using it temporarily. If the irritation persists you should stop using the medicine completely and consult your doctor.

If your skin is sunburnt you should not use this medicine until your skin is fully recovered, as it may potentially cause severe irritation to the skin.

Avoid contact of this medicine with the eyes, angles of the nose, mouth, mucous membranes (eg linings of the nose) and broken areas of skin.

You can use cosmetics or moisturisers while using this medicine, but not at the same time. Wash your skin thoroughly before applying the medicine.

Use with caution in

Eczema

Not to be used in

Personal or family history of cancer of the skin or lining of the internal body cavities (cutaneous epithelioma)

Pregnancy

This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy. If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

This medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it may be harmful to the unborn baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

It is not known if this medicine passes into breast milk, therefore it should be avoided during breast feeding. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

Side effects

Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

Changes in skin pigmentation

Abnormal reaction of the skin to light, usually a rash (photosensitivity)

Dry skin

Skin peeling

Skin redness

Stinging/warmth on application

Skin blistering/crusting

Skin irritation

The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the drug's manufacturer. For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

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