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Acitretin

Latest prescription information about Acitretin. Learn how to pronounce the drug’s name, its indications, dosage, how to take, when to take, when not to take, side effects, special precautions, its storage instructions and warnings if any when taken during pregnancy. Also listed are the International and Indian trade name(s) of the drug and its price list.
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Generic Name : Acitretin
Pronunciation : A-si-TRE-tin
Trade Name(s): 
India- Aceret Cap, Acetec Cap, Acitrin Cap.
International- Soriatane, Soriatane CK.
Why it is prescribed (Indications) : 
This medication is a synthetic retinoid, prescribed for severe psoriasis (abnormal growth of skin cells that causes red, thickened, or scaly skin). It regulates the growth of epidermal cells.

When it is not to be taken (Contraindications): 


Contraindicated in patients with liver, kidney impairment, during pregnancy (before the start, during and at least 2-3 yr after cessation of therapy), lactation, increased level of lipids in blood.

Pregnancy Category :

A B C D X
Category X : Studies in animals or humans have demonstrated fetal abnormalities and/or there is positive evidence of human fetal risk based on adverse reaction data from investigational or marketing experience, and the risks involved in use of the drug in pregnant women clearly outweigh potential benefits.


When it is to be taken : 
Adult: PO- The recommended dose is 25 to 50 mg per day, given as a single dose with the main meal.
How it should be taken : 
It comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken once a day with the main meal.
Special Instruction : 
*It may cause drowsiness or vision changes. Do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.
*Avoid blood donation during therapy or at least 1-3 years after stopping therapy.
*It may make your skin sensitive to light, so avoid sunlight.
*Remove contact lenses while using this medication otherwise it will increase irritation.
*Monitor liver function, plasma lipid and glucose levels (especially in diabetic patients) regularly.
Side Effects : 
Hypervitaminosis A syndrome (Excess intake of Vitamin A).
Heart- Heart attack, clots in blood vessels and stroke.
Central Nervous System- Aggressive feelings and/or suicidal thoughts and depression.
Gastrointestinal- Dry mouth, increased thirst, taste changes, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.
Skin- Rash, itching, scaling, dryness, thinning, damage of skin and nail damage.
Genitourinary- Vulvo-vaginal infection due to fungal infection.
Hypersensitivity- Allergic reaction includes: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), dizziness and trouble in breathing.
Miscellaneous- Fever, chills, dark urine and peeling of skin.
Potentially Fatal- Sunburn, jaundice and liver toxicity.
Other Precautions : 
*Avoid alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Storage Conditions : 
Oral: Store below 25°C. Store it at room temperature and in an airtight container. Keep away from children.

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