Acitretin

Acitretin is a medicine that is similar to vitamin A and is involved in the normal growth of skin cells. It is used in the treatment of psoriasis. It works by stopping the overgrowth and thickening of skin cells.

Acitretin is taken with food in a dose and duration as advised by the doctor. The dose you are given will depend on your condition and how you respond to the medicine. You should keep taking this medicine for as long as your doctor recommends. If you stop treatment too early your symptoms may come back and your condition may worsen. Let your doctor know about all other medications you are taking as some may affect, or be affected by this medicine.

The most common side effects are dry lips, dryness in the mouth, skin peeling, joint pain, itching, runny nose, nosebleeds, hair loss, and increased levels of blood fat. Most of these are temporary and usually resolve with time. Contact your doctor straight away if you are at all concerned about any of these side effects. It may cause dizziness and sleepiness, so do not drive or do anything that requires mental focus until you know how this medicine affects you. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine as it can make dizziness worse.

Avoid sun exposure and cover the treated areas with clothing or use a sunscreen before stepping out in the sun. Your doctor may get your regular blood tests done to monitor your liver function and the levels of fats such as cholesterol in your blood. You should tell your doctor if you have any kidney or liver diseases so that your doctor can prescribe a suitable dose for you. Before taking this medicine, you should tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding as Acitretin can cause fetal abnormalities.

• Psoriasis

Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a condition where the skin cells in the body grow too quickly and form scales and dry patches. They can grow anywhere, but most appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back. Acitretin reduces the scaly, itchy patches along with other symptoms of inflammation such as redness, swelling or irritation which may develop on the different parts of the body. It also stops the overgrowth and thickening of the skin. Take it for as long as it is prescribed to get the most benefit. It may take several months to become fully effective. You should avoid drinking alcohol while having this treatment and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Most side effects do not require any medical attention and disappear as your body adjusts to the medicine. Consult your doctor if they persist or if you’re worried about them

Common side effects of Sentrane

• Dryness in mouth
• Skin peeling
• Itching
• Hair loss
• Dry skin
• Lip inflammation
• Dry eye
• Inflammation of the nose

Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Acitretin is to be taken with food.

Acitretin is a retinoid. It has a structure similar to vitamin A and is involved in the normal growth of skin cells. It works by stopping overgrowth and thickening of skin cells in psoriasis.

• Acitretin helps reduce thickening, plaque formation and scaling of the skin in conditions such as psoriasis.
• Take it at the same time every day with food or a glass of milk.
• Do not take Acitretin if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy or breastfeeding as it can cause birth defects in babies. Use effective methods of contraception to prevent pregnancy.
• You will need to take pregnancy tests regularly if you are on treatment with and for at least 3 years after you stop taking this medicine.
• Avoid exposure to sunlight while using Acitretin as it increases the sensitivity of your skin. Use protective measures such as sun-creams and protective clothing.
• It may cause dryness of skin, mouth, and lips. Drink plenty of water and use a moisturiser and lip balm, if needed.
• It may cause dry eyes and blurring of vision. Avoid wearing contact lenses and be cautious before driving or using machines.
• Your doctor may get your regular blood tests done to monitor your liver function and the levels of fats such as cholesterol in your blood.

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