Dosing & Uses
Dosage Forms & Strengths
topical cream
- 0.02% (Renova)
- 0.025% (Retin-A, Avita)
- 0.05% (Retin-A, Renova, Refissa)
- 0.06% (Retin-A Micro Pump)
- 0.1% (Retin-A)
topical gel
- 0.01% (Retin-A)
- 0.025% (Retin-A, Avita)
- 0.04% (Retin-A Micro)
- 0.05% (Atralin)
- 0.08% (Retin-A Micro)
- 0.1% (Retin-A Micro)
topical solution
- 0.05% (Retin-A)
topical lotion
- 0.05% (Altreno)
Acne Vulgaris
Retin-A, Altreno, Atralin, Avita, Retin-A Micro, Tretin-X
- Apply a pea-sized amount topically qHS to the skin where acne lesions appear, using enough to lightly cover the entire affected area
Facial Wrinkles
Adjunct for mitigation of fine wrinkles, mottled hyperpigmentation, and tactile roughness of facial skin
Renova, Refissa
- Apply a pea-sized amount (0.02-0.05%) to the affected area qHS
Dosage Forms & Strengths
topical cream
- 0.02% (Renova)
- 0.025% (Retin-A, Avita)
- 0.05% (Retin-A, Renova, Refissa)
- 0.1% (Retin-A)
topical gel
- 0.01% (Retin-A)
- 0.025% (Retin-A, Avita)
- 0.04% (Retin-A Micro)
- 0.05% (Atralin)
- 0.08% (Retin-A Micro)
- 0.1% (Retin-A Micro)
topical solution
- 0.05% (Retin-A)
topical lotion
- 0.05% (Altreno)
Acne Vulgaris
Retin-A, Altreno, Atralin, Avita, Retin-A Micro
- Altreno; <9 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- Atralin; <10 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- Retin-A, Retin-A Micro, Avita; <12 years: Safety and efficacy not established
- Apply a pea-sized amount topically qHS to the skin where acne lesions appear, using enough to lightly cover the entire affected area
Interactions
Interaction Checker
No Results
Contraindicated
Serious - Use Alternative
Significant - Monitor Closely
Minor
Contraindicated (0)
Serious - Use Alternative (34)
- aminolevulinic acid oral
aminolevulinic acid oral, tretinoin topical. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Avoid administering other phototoxic drugs with aminolevulinic acid oral for 24 hr during perioperative period.
- aminolevulinic acid topical
tretinoin topical, aminolevulinic acid topical. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Each drug may increase the photosensitizing effect of the other.
- bendroflumethiazide
bendroflumethiazide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- chlorothiazide
chlorothiazide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- chlorpromazine
chlorpromazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- chlorthalidone
chlorthalidone, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- ciprofloxacin
ciprofloxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Both drugs have increased risk of phototoxicity, use caution with concomitant use.
- cyclopenthiazide
cyclopenthiazide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- demeclocycline
demeclocycline, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- doxycycline
doxycycline, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- fleroxacin
fleroxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- fluphenazine
fluphenazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- gemifloxacin
gemifloxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- hydrochlorothiazide
hydrochlorothiazide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- indapamide
indapamide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- levofloxacin
levofloxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- methotrexate
methotrexate, tretinoin topical. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Additive hepatotoxicity.
- methyclothiazide
methyclothiazide, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- methyl aminolevulinate
tretinoin topical, methyl aminolevulinate. Either increases toxicity of the other by pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Each drug may increase the photosensitizing effect of the other.
- metolazone
metolazone, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- minocycline
minocycline, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- moxifloxacin
moxifloxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- ofloxacin
ofloxacin, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- oxytetracycline
oxytetracycline, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- perphenazine
perphenazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- prochlorperazine
prochlorperazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- promazine
promazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- promethazine
promethazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- sulfadiazine
sulfadiazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- sulfamethoxazole
sulfamethoxazole, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- sulfisoxazole
sulfisoxazole, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- tetracycline
tetracycline, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- thioridazine
thioridazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
- trifluoperazine
trifluoperazine, tretinoin topical. Mechanism: pharmacodynamic synergism. Avoid or Use Alternate Drug. Increased phototoxicity.
Monitor Closely (3)
- mifepristone
mifepristone will increase the level or effect of tretinoin topical by Other (see comment). Use Caution/Monitor. Inhibits CYP2C8/2C9; use smallest recommended doses for substrates and monitor
- porfimer
tretinoin topical will increase the level or effect of porfimer by pharmacodynamic synergism. Use Caution/Monitor. May enhance the photosensitizing effects of porfimer
- stiripentol
stiripentol will increase the level or effect of tretinoin topical by Other (see comment). Modify Therapy/Monitor Closely. Stiripentol is a CYP2C8 inhibitor. Consider dosage reduction for CYP2C8 substrates if adverse effects are experienced when coadministered.
Minor (1)
- ketoconazole
ketoconazole increases levels of tretinoin topical by decreasing metabolism. Minor/Significance Unknown.
Adverse Effects
Frequency Not Defined
Excessive dryness
Erythema
Scaling
Pruritus
Hyperpigmentation/hypopigmentation
Photosensitivity
Initial acne flare-up
Edema
Blistering
Stinging
Warnings
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity
Sunburn
Cautions
Extreme caution in eczema (may produce severe irritation of eczematous skin)
Discontinue if sensitivity or chemical irritation occurs
Exposure to UV light (including from sunlamps) increases intensity of inflammatory reaction; use sunscreen of at least SPF 15 and protective clothing during exposure
Concomitant topical medications such as abrasive soaps, cleansers, or cosmetics with strong drying effects may increase skin irritation
Avoid use with weather extremes, such as wind or cold due to potential for increased irritation; excessive dryness, redness, and swollen or blistered skin may occur; reduce amount, frequency, or discontinue use until irritation disappears
Use Atralin Gel with caution if patient allergic to fish due to potential for allergenicity to fish protein; patients who develop pruritus or urticaria should contact their health care provider
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy category: C
Lactation: Not known whether excreted in breast milk
Pregnancy Categories
A: Generally acceptable. Controlled studies in pregnant women show no evidence of fetal risk.
B: May be acceptable. Either animal studies show no risk but human studies not available or animal studies showed minor risks and human studies done and showed no risk. C: Use with caution if benefits outweigh risks. Animal studies show risk and human studies not available or neither animal nor human studies done. D: Use in LIFE-THREATENING emergencies when no safer drug available. Positive evidence of human fetal risk. X: Do not use in pregnancy. Risks involved outweigh potential benefits. Safer alternatives exist. NA: Information not available.Pharmacology
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits microcomedo formation; decreases cohesiveness of keratinocytes in sebaceous follicles, which allows for easy removal; has anti-inflammatory properties
Absorption
Minimal
Elimination
Excretion: Urine (0.1%)
Administration
Topical Administration
Instruct patient to
- Apply pea-sized amount sparingly to skin where acne lesions appear
- Apply 20 minutes after skin is cleansed and completely dried
- Avoid lips and directly under eyes
- Avoid UV exposure
Images
| BRAND | FORM. | UNIT PRICE | PILL IMAGE |
|---|---|---|---|
| Renova topical - | 0.02 % cream |  | |
| Renova topical - | 0.02 % cream |  | |
| Renova topical - | 0.02 % cream |  | |
| Renova topical - | 0.02 % cream |  |
Copyright © 2010 First DataBank, Inc.
Patient Handout
tretinoin (emollient) topical
TRETINOIN CREAM - TOPICAL
(tret-ih-NO-in)
COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Renova
USES: This medication is used to improve the appearance of the skin by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, reducing roughness, and improving skin color. It should be used with a skin care and sunlight-avoidance program that includes moisturizer and daily use of an effective sunscreen (minimum SPF 15).Tretinoin belongs to a class of medications called retinoids. It works by affecting the growth of skin cells. Tretinoin does not repair sun-damaged skin or reverse aging due to sun exposure.
HOW TO USE: Read the Patient Information Leaflet available from your pharmacist before you start using this medication and each time you get a refill. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.Gently clean your face with a mild or soapless cleanser and pat skin dry. Wait 20-30 minutes before applying this medication. Apply a pea-sized amount of cream, using just enough to cover your entire face lightly, usually once a day before bedtime or as directed by your doctor. Be careful to avoid your eyes, nostrils and mouth. Do not wash your face or apply another skin care product for at least 1 hour after using this product.Do not use more of this medication than prescribed or use it more often. It will not give you faster or better results, but will increase the risk of developing redness, peeling and pain. Do not use on cut, scraped, sunburned, or eczema-affected skin.Avoid getting this medication in your eyes. If this medication gets into your eyes, flush with large amounts of water. Call your doctor if eye irritation develops. Wash your hands after using the medication to avoid accidentally getting it in your eyes.Effects of this medication will appear slowly, with most improvement seen in the first 6 months of use.If used for acne, your condition may worsen at first, then improve.
SIDE EFFECTS: A brief sensation of warmth or stinging may occur immediately after applying the medication. Skin redness, dryness, itching, scaling, mild burning, or worsening of acne may occur during the first 2-4 weeks of using the medication. These effects usually decrease with continued use. A daytime moisturizer may be helpful for very dry skin (see Notes).If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Your doctor may want you to decrease how often you use tretinoin, change the strength, or have you stop using it.Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.Notify your doctor if you experience: blistering, crusting, severe burning/swelling of the skin, eye redness and watering (conjunctivitis), eyelid swelling, darkening or lightening of skin color.A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction may include: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.In the US -Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
PRECAUTIONS: Before using tretinoin, 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, 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: eczema.This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Weather extremes such as wind or cold may also be irritating to the skin. Use sunscreen daily and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness. Wait until your skin has completely recovered from a sunburn before using tretinoin.Avoid electrolysis, waxing and chemical depilatories for hair removal on the treated areas while using this product.If you have recently used products containing sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid, use tretinoin with caution. Wait until the effects of such products on the skin have decreased before using tretinoin.During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also Precautions section.The effects of some drugs can change if you take other drugs or herbal products at the same time. This can increase your risk for serious side effects or may cause your medications not to work correctly. These drug interactions are possible, but do not always occur. Your doctor or pharmacist can often prevent or manage interactions by changing how you use your medications or by close monitoring.To help your doctor and pharmacist give you the best care, be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products) before starting treatment with this product. While using this product, do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any other medicines you are using without your doctor's approval.Some products that may interact with this drug include: hair perming solutions, alcohol/lime/menthol-containing products (such as astringents, toners, shaving lotions), medicated or abrasive soaps and cleansers, products containing alpha hydroxy acid, products containing glycolic acid, products containing sulfur, resorcinol or salicylic acid, soaps and cosmetics with a strong drying effect, other drugs that may increase your sensitivity to sunlight (including fluoroquinolones such as ciprofloxacin, tetracyclines, thiazide water pills such as hydrochlorothiazide, sulfa drugs such as sulfamethoxazole, phenothiazines such as chlorpromazine).Benzoyl peroxide should not be applied at the same time as this medication.This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use. Share this list with your doctor and pharmacist to lessen your risk for serious medication problems.
OVERDOSE: If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. This medicine may be harmful if swallowed. Symptoms of overdose may include excessive redness, peeling, and discomfort.
NOTES: Cosmetics may be used 1 hour after applying tretinoin. Be sure to clean skin well before applying the medication. Daily moisturizer should be used to protect your skin from dryness.Do not share this medication with others.
MISSED DOSE: If you forget to use this medication, use it as soon as you remember if you remember the same day. If you don't remember until morning, wait until your next dose is scheduled.
STORAGE: Store at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) away from light and moisture. Brief storage at 59-86 degrees F (15-30 degrees C) is permitted. Do not freeze. Keep all medicines away from children and pets.Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for more details about how to safely discard your product.
Information last revised August 2021. Copyright(c) 2021 First Databank, Inc.
IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.
Formulary
Adding plans allows you to compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
To view formulary information first create a list of plans. Your list will be saved and can be edited at any time.
Adding plans allows you to:
- View the formulary and any restrictions for each plan.
- Manage and view all your plans together – even plans in different states.
- Compare formulary status to other drugs in the same class.
- Access your plan list on any device – mobile or desktop.
