Tretinoin, Oral
Cytostatic · Vitamin A derivative
Indications
With anthracycline-based chemotherapy in acute promyelocytic leukaemia.
Dosage
Adults & Children: 45 mg/m² daily in two divided doses with a meal. Continue treatment until complete remission or up to max 90 days.
Adverse Effects
Retinoic acid syndrome; treat if develops. Thrombosis. Dry skin and mucous membranes, rash, cheilitis, headache, CNS disturbances, intracranial hypertension, visual, hearing and GI disturbances, bone pain, chest pain, raised serum lipids, dyspnoea, asthma-like syndrome, arrhythmia, flushing, oedema, hyperleukocytosis.
Risk Factor (Pregnancy/Lactation)
Pregnancy: Contraindicated in pregnancy. Lactation: Contraindicated or not recommended. Contraindications: Soya or peanut allergy. Precautions: Renal or hepatic impairment. Monitor haematology, coagulation, liver function and serum lipids frequently.
Interactions
Progestogen-only contraceptives, tetracyclines, vit. A, liver enzyme inducers and inhibitors, antifibrinolytics.
Advice to Patient
Take with meals. Do not crush, chew or dissolve capsules. Contact prescriber if there is constant vomiting, diarrhoea, acute stomach pain, unusual bruising or bleeding, difficulty in breathing, changes in vision, unusual weight gain, swelling of extremities, bone pain. Avoid alcohol, foods containing vitamin A and food containing high fat content during treatment. Take sufficient amount of fluids (2-3 litres per day) to maintain hydration, unless restricted by the prescriber. Avoid wearing contact lenses during therapy to prevent irritation of eyes. Avoid direct sunlight, wear sunscreen, proper eyewear and protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity.
Pharmacokinetics
Pediatric values similar to adult. Absorption: Well absorbed. Metabolism: Hepatic. Primary metabolite is 4-oxo-all-trans-retinoic acid. Half-life elimination: Terminal: Parent drug: 0.5 to 2 hours. Time to peak, serum: 1 to 2 hours. Excretion: Urine (63%); feces (30%).
Brands with this active ingredient
Compiled by Healify Pharmacy from published drug references. How we compile it →
Always consult a pharmacist or doctor.