Understanding Acitretin: Benefits, Dosage, and Side Effects #
Acitretin is a medication prescribed for severe psoriasis unresponsive to other treatments. It is also used for handling lichen planus, congenital ichthyosis, and Darier’s disease. As a retinoid, Acitretin operates by slowing the production of new skin cells and reducing inflammation symptoms, including redness and swelling in psoriasis.
It’s crucial to note that Acitretin is not a cure for psoriasis. The medication is available in capsule form and should only be taken with a doctor’s prescription.
Trade names for Acitretin include Neotigason and Novatretin.
What is Acitretin? #
- Class: Prescription Drug
- Category: Retinoid
- Benefits: Reduces symptoms of severe psoriasis, lichen planus, congenital ichthyosis, and Darier’s disease
- Administered to: Adults
- Pregnancy Category: X
Acitretin should not be used by pregnant women or those who might become pregnant, as studies in animals and humans have shown risks of fetal abnormalities. The drug can also pass into breast milk, so breastfeeding mothers should avoid it without medical consultation.
Before Using Acitretin #
Acitretin should only be used as directed by a doctor. Consider the following precautions before use:
- Avoid if allergic to Acitretin or other retinoids like tretinoin or isotretinoin. Disclose any allergies to your doctor.
- Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Discuss with your doctor if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant.
- Use effective contraception during and for three years following Acitretin treatment.
- Inform your doctor of any liver failure, kidney failure, or hyperlipidemia as Acitretin is contraindicated.
- Refrain from blood donation during and for three years post-treatment.
- Disclose any history of heart disease, diabetes, liver disease, mental disorders like depression, or past phototherapy procedures.
- Avoid driving or activities requiring alertness post-consumption as it can impair vision.
- Disclose any medications, supplements, or herbal products being used.
- Limit direct sunlight exposure as Acitretin can increase sun sensitivity.
- Seek medical attention for allergic reactions, serious side effects, or overdose.
Dosage and Administration #
For severe psoriasis, lichen planus, congenital ichthyosis:
- Initial dose of 25 mg or 30 mg daily for 2-4 weeks, adjusted based on patient response. Maintenance dose of 25-50 mg daily for 6-8 weeks, maximum of 75 mg per day.
For Darier’s disease:
- Start with 10 mg daily for 2-4 weeks. If necessary, the dose may be increased to 25-50 mg daily based on patient response.
Proper Use of Acitretin #
Follow the doctor’s instructions and read the product information before taking Acitretin. Do not alter the dose or duration of use.
- Pre-treatment blood tests, cholesterol tests, and kidney function tests will be required. Pregnancy tests for women are mandatory before treatment commencement.
- Take one capsule daily with or after meals. Swallow the capsule with a glass of milk, preferably at the same time each day for maximum benefit.
- If a dose is missed and close to the next, skip it—do not double up.
- Treatment results may take 2-3 months. Do not stop treatment without consulting a doctor first. Consult a doctor if skin irritation occurs or psoriasis symptoms persist after two months.
- Regular check-ups and blood tests will be part of ongoing monitoring.
- Avoid contact lenses during treatment due to risk of dry eyes. Use prescribed eye drops for dry eye relief.
- Store capsules in a cool, unseen place, away from children.
Drug Interactions #
Acitretin may interact with other medications:
- Increased risk of hepatitis with methotrexate
- Increased intracranial pressure with tetracyclines
- Risk of hypervitaminosis A with vitamin A supplements or other retinoids
- Reduced effect of phenytoin
- Enhanced blood sugar reduction from glyburide
- Decreased efficacy of progestin-only birth control pills
Alcohol consumption can heighten the risk of serious side effects when taking Acitretin.
Side Effects and Dangers #
Possible side effects include:
- Dry mouth and skin
- Itchy, red, peeling skin
- Dry or irritated eyes
- Swollen lips and sneezing
- Hair loss
- Nosebleeds or dry nose
- Sleep disturbances
- Thickened, discolored, or brittle nails
Seek medical advice if side effects persist or worsen. Immediate medical attention is required for allergic reactions or severe side effects such as confusion, depression, suicidal thoughts, fever, chills, joint or muscle pain, irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, persistent vomiting, or swelling in the hands or feet.
Conclusion #
Understanding Acitretin’s role, usage, and potential side effects is vital for those considering this psoriasis treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitor for any adverse effects during treatment.