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General Medication Fact Sheet for Retin A Cream & Gel
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Medication Name | Retin A Cream & Gel |
| Generic Name | Tretinoin |
| Purpose | Treatment of acne vulgaris and, in some formulations, reduction of fine wrinkles and skin discoloration. |
| Mechanism of Action | Increases skin cell turnover and reduces the cohesiveness of keratinocytes, which helps to expel existing comedones and prevent the formation of new ones. |
| Dosage Forms | Topical cream, topical gel |
| Available Strengths | Cream: 0.025%, 0.05%, 0.1%; Gel: 0.01%, 0.025% |
| Dosage Frequency | Typically applied once daily, usually at bedtime. |
| Common Side Effects | Redness, peeling, dryness, itching, burning sensation, increased sensitivity to sunlight. |
| Serious Side Effects | Severe skin irritation, blistering, changes in skin pigmentation. |
| Drug Interactions | Other topical acne medications (e.g., benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid), products containing alcohol, astringents, spices, or lime. |
| Important Notes | Avoid contact with eyes, mouth, and other mucous membranes. Use sunscreen daily. Improvement may take several weeks. |
| Storage | Store at room temperature away from heat and direct light. |
| Missed Dose | Apply as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next application. Do not double the dose. |
| Alternatives | Adapalene (Differin), Tazarotene (Tazorac), Azelaic Acid, Benzoyl Peroxide. |
Retin A Cream & Gel Alternatives
| Medication | Mechanism of Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adapalene (Differin) | Retinoid receptor agonist | Available over-the-counter in some strengths; may be less irritating than tretinoin. |
| Tazarotene (Tazorac) | Retinoid receptor agonist | A more potent retinoid, often used for acne and psoriasis. |
| Azelaic Acid | Antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties | Effective for acne and rosacea; can reduce inflammation and hyperpigmentation. |
| Benzoyl Peroxide | Antibacterial agent | Reduces acne-causing bacteria and helps to exfoliate the skin. |
Retin A Cream & Gel Side Effects
| Common Side Effects | Serious Side Effects |
|---|---|
| Redness | Severe skin irritation |
| Peeling | Blistering |
| Dryness | Changes in skin pigmentation (hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation) |
| Itching | Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling) |
Retin A Cream & Gel Dosage Guide
| Condition | Starting Dose | Maintenance Dose | Administration Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acne Vulgaris | Apply a thin layer of 0.025% cream or 0.01% gel | Adjust strength as tolerated; typically 0.025% to 0.1% cream or 0.01% to 0.025% gel once daily | Apply to clean, dry skin at bedtime. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. |
| Fine Wrinkles and Skin Discoloration | Apply a thin layer of 0.05% cream | Adjust strength as tolerated; 0.05% to 0.1% cream once daily | Apply to clean, dry skin at bedtime. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Use sunscreen daily. |
Retin A Cream & Gel Price With And Without Insurance
| Purchase Context | Estimated Price |
|---|---|
| With Insurance | $30 |
| Without Insurance (U.S.) | $150 |
| From Canada | $26 |
