About tretinoin
Retinoid; vitamin A derivative
Used for
- Treats acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL), usually with other cancer medicines.
Usual adult dose
APL: 45 mg/m² daily by mouth in two divided doses, continued until remission or as directed by the oncology team.
Usual dose in children
APL: typically 45 mg/m² daily by mouth in two divided doses; specialist-directed dosing is essential.
Common side effects
- Headache, fever, fatigue, and dry skin or lips
- Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea
- Swelling, bone pain, or rash
- Differentiation syndrome: fever, breathing difficulty, weight gain, or swelling
Important warnings
- Can cause life-threatening differentiation syndrome; urgent assessment is needed for breathing problems or rapid swelling.
- Can raise pressure in the brain, cause liver problems, or affect blood cell counts.
- Treatment requires close monitoring by a cancer specialist.
- Avoid vitamin A supplements unless the oncology team approves.
Pregnancy
Can cause severe birth defects or pregnancy loss. Pregnancy testing and effective contraception are required during treatment and for one month afterward.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is not recommended during treatment and for one week after the last dose.
Interactions
- Vitamin A supplements may increase toxicity.
- Tetracycline antibiotics may increase pressure in the brain.
- Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers can alter tretinoin levels.
- Antifibrinolytics such as tranexamic acid may increase clotting risk.
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.