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. Avoid prolonged sun exposure, tanning booths or sunlamps. Use a sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors.
Alitretinoin may cause vision changes, including decreased night vision. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires 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 immediately. 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 drug passes into breast milk. However, similar drugs pass into breast milk. Breast-feeding while using this medication is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
