About acitretin
Oral retinoid
Used for
- Severe psoriasis, including widespread or thickened forms
- Certain disorders of skin keratinisation
Usual adult dose
Usually 25–50 mg once daily with food; specialist adjusts to response and tolerability.
Usual dose in children
Specialist-only: typically 0.5 mg/kg once daily, with strict limits and monitoring.
Common side effects
- Dry, cracked lips and dry skin
- Dry eyes, nose, or mouth
- Hair thinning or shedding
- Raised liver enzymes or blood fats
Important warnings
- Highly harmful to an unborn baby; strict pregnancy prevention is essential during treatment and for three years afterward.
- Avoid alcohol during treatment and for two months afterward; it can prolong harmful effects.
- Regular liver and blood-fat tests are required.
- Do not donate blood during treatment or for three years afterward.
Pregnancy
Must not be used during pregnancy. Pregnancy prevention is required during treatment and for three years after stopping.
Breastfeeding
Must not be used while breastfeeding.
Interactions
- Methotrexate: increased risk of liver injury; combination is contraindicated.
- Tetracycline antibiotics: risk of raised pressure inside the skull.
- Vitamin A or other retinoids: increased risk of toxicity.
- Alcohol: may form a long-lasting substance harmful in pregnancy.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.