Alitretinoin

Pronunciation

Brand Names

Therapeutic Categories

What is this medicine used for?

• This medicine is used for the treatment of skin lesions in patients with AIDS-related Kaposi's sarcoma.
• It may take up to 3 months to see the full benefits.

How does it work?

• Alitretinoin decreases or prevents the growth of Kaposi's sarcoma.

How is it best taken?

• Do not take by mouth. For skin only. Keep out of mouth, nose, and eyes (may burn).
• Wash your hands before and after use.
• Clean affected area before use.
• Use a small amount over the area affected as a light film. Rub in gently.
• Avoid putting on healthy skin (may burn).
• Do not put coverings (bandages, dressings, make-up) over the area unless told to do so by healthcare provider.
• Use entire prescription as directed, even if feeling better.

What do I do if I miss a dose?

• Apply a missed dose as soon as possible.
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one. Return to your regular schedule.
• Do not apply a double dose or extra doses.

What are the precautions when taking this medicine?

• Limit alcohol intake (includes wine, beer, and liquor).
• Do not use with insect repellents that contain N, N-diethyl-m-toluamide (DEET).
• Do not take extra vitamin A, beta-carotene, or a multivitamin while taking this medicine.
• Do not donate blood while using this medicine.
• You can get sunburned more easily. Avoid lots of sun. Use sunscreen; wear protective clothing and eyewear.
• Tell healthcare provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Make sure to tell about the allergy and how it affected you. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat; or any other symptoms involved.
• Do not use in pregnancy and do not get pregnant. Use birth control that you can trust. Use 1 month before starting this medicine, during, and for at least 1 month after stopping this medicine.
• Do not use if you are breast-feeding.

What are the common side effects of this medicine?

• Rash, pain, and itching where this medicine is applied.
• Flaking, peeling, cracking, and swelling of skin.

What should I monitor?

• Follow up with healthcare provider.

Reasons to call healthcare provider immediately

• Signs of a life-threatening reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; fits; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Swelling, redness, and blistering of the skin.

How should I store this medicine?

• Store at room temperature.

General statements

• Do not share your medicine with others and do not take anyone else's medicine.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and pets.
• Keep a list of all your medicines (prescription, herbal/supplements, vitamins, over-the-counter) with you. Give this list to healthcare provider (doctor, nurse, pharmacist, physician assistant).
• Talk with healthcare provider before starting any new medicine, including over-the-counter or natural products (herbs, vitamins).

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