HealthNotes

Before taking alitretinoin, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to vitamin A-related drugs (other retinoids such as isotretinoin); or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients (such as soy), which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: diabetes, high cholesterol/triglycerides, high levels of vitamin A, kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood problems (such as depression), thyroid disease.

Do not donate blood while taking this drug and for at least 1 month after stopping treatment. This will lessen the chance of your blood being given to a pregnant woman.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

Alitretinoin may cause vision changes, including decreased night vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs clear vision (especially at night) until you are sure you can perform such activities safely.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

This drug must not be used during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby. Females must use two reliable forms of birth control for 1 month before starting alitretinoin, during use, and for at least 1 month after treatment has stopped. If you become pregnant or think you may be pregnant, tell your doctor right away. See also Warning section.

Since this drug can be absorbed through the skin and lungs and may harm an unborn baby, women who are pregnant or who may become pregnant should not handle this medication or breathe the dust from the capsules.

It is unknown if this medication passes into breast milk. However, similar drugs pass into breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.