Important Note

The following information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before using this drug.

ALITRETINOIN GEL - TOPICAL

(al-ih-tret-ih-NO-in)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Panretin

Uses

This medication is used to treat Kaposi's sarcoma, a skin condition. This medication will not treat Kaposi's sarcoma in other parts of your body, nor is it a cure for this condition.

How To Use

Apply a generous coating of medication to the affected areas, as directed. Allow the area to dry for 5 minutes before covering with clothing. Avoid contact with normal skin areas and mucous membranes (e.g., eyes, mouth, genitals). Do not use bandages or dressings on areas treated with this medication. Effects of therapy are generally seen within 4 to 8 weeks of treatment. If you are currently taking antiviral drugs, continue to take them exactly as prescribed.

Side Effects

Mild redness, burning sensation, or itching may occur. If these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor promptly. Report promptly: severe redness, rash, swelling, peeling, stinging or tingling skin, blistering, cracking/oozing skin. Unlikely but report promptly: sunburn (sun sensitivity). If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

Precautions

Tell your doctor your medical history, including: any allergies, other skin conditions, tumors (e.g., lymphoma). This medication may make you more prone to sunburn. Wear protective clothing and sunscreen, if needed. Avoid exposure of treated areas to sunlamps. Consult your pharmacist. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm the fetus if absorbed into the bloodstream during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before using this drug. It is not known whether this drug is excreted into breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Drug Interactions

Tell your doctor of all prescription and nonprescription medication you may use, especially: medications you apply to your skin, insect repellants (especially those that contain DEET). Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed.

Notes

Do not share this medication with others.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 to 30 degrees C) away from light and moisture.