৳ 85/unit
Pack: ৳ 595
৳ 85/unit
Pack: ৳ 595
At a glance
Acitretin is a second-generation retinoid used for severe psoriasis and other keratinization disorders. It is a synthetic vitamin A analog that regulates abnormal skin cell growth.
Indications
Severe extensive psoriasis (resistant to other therapies); palmo-plantar pustular psoriasis; severe congenital ichthyosis; severe Darier's disease (keratosis follicularis).
Pharmacology
Acitretin is an aromatic retinoid related to vitamin A. Its exact mechanism is unknown, but it modulates cellular differentiation in the epidermis, re-establishing a more normal pattern of cell growth. It has antiproliferative, anti-inflammatory, and anti-angiogenic effects.
Dosage
Adults and Elderly:
- Initial dose: 25-30 mg/day for 2-4 weeks.
- Maintenance dose: 25-50 mg/day for 6-8 weeks.
- Maximum dose: 75 mg/day.
- Darier's disease: Starting dose may be 10 mg/day, not exceeding 50 mg/day.
Children:
- Approximately 0.5 mg/kg/day (maximum 35 mg/day).
Side effects
Very common (>10%): Dry lips (cheilitis), dry skin, peeling, hair loss (alopecia).
Common (1-10%): Joint pain, muscle pain, itching, runny nose, nosebleeds, nail changes, headache, dry mouth.
Laboratory abnormalities: Increased triglycerides and cholesterol, decreased HDL, elevated LFTs.
Serious (rare): Liver damage (hepatitis), severe headache, nausea, vision problems, night blindness, depression, hyperglycemia.
Use in pregnancy
Acitretin is highly teratogenic and absolutely contraindicated during pregnancy.
Pregnancy Category: X — always consult a doctor before taking during pregnancy.
Precautions & warnings
- Teratogenicity: Highly teratogenic. Absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy.
- Contraception: Women of childbearing potential must use 2 effective methods of contraception 1 month before, during, and for 3 years after treatment.
- Alcohol: Acitretin plus alcohol forms teratogenic etretinate. Alcohol is strictly prohibited during treatment and for 2 months after.
- Blood donation: Prohibited during and for 3 years after treatment.
- Liver and lipid monitoring: Regular LFTs and lipid profiles before and during treatment.
- Sun exposure: Skin becomes more sensitive; use sunscreen and protective clothing.
Overdose effects
Overdose symptoms: severe headache, vertigo, nausea, vomiting. Treatment: drug discontinuation and symptomatic care.
Storage conditions
Store below 25C in a cool and dry place, protected from light. Keep out of reach of children.