November 21, 2009
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Retin-A Micro

(tretinoin (acne))

DIN (Drug Identification Number)

02243914 RETIN-A MICRO 0.1% TOPICAL MICROSPHERE GEL
02264633 RETIN-A MICRO 0.04% TOPICAL GEL

How does Retin-A Micro work? What will it do for me?

Tretinoin is used to treat certain types of acne. Tretinoin helps acne by exfoliating the skin's outer layer which helps to reduce the formation of blackheads, whiteheads and other acne lesions.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you have not discussed this with your doctor or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

How should I use Retin-A Micro?

Tretinoin should be applied once daily at bedtime to lightly cover the areas being treated. The area of application should be thoroughly cleansed with a mild soap and water and patted dry with a soft towel. Wait about 20 minutes before applying the medication so your skin is completely dry. The treated area should be washed no more than twice daily. Apply a small amount (about the size of a pea) on your fingertip and spread it on the skin where acne lesions appear. Use only enough medication to cover the affected areas lightly.

Keep the medication away for the corners of the nose, mouth, eyes and mucous membranes. Avoid applying excess amounts as the medication may run into the eyes and other areas that should be avoided. Avoid areas of the skin where you have other problems such as eczema, severely inflamed skin or open skin lesions. After you wash your skin in the morning, it is recommended that you apply a moisturizer or a moisturizer with sunscreen that will not aggravate your acne.

After 3 to 6 weeks of treatment, you may notice new blemishes. Keep using this medication as you will notice a gradual improvement over 8 to 12 weeks.

Prolonged exposure to sunlight, sunlamps, wind, and cold should be avoided during treatment. If exposure to the sun is unavoidable, use a sunscreen with minimum SPF 15 and wear protective clothing.

Many things can affect the dose of a medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be applied on a regular schedule and exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Store this medication at room temperature and keep it out of the reach of children. Gel products are flammable and should be kept away from heat of flame.

Do not dispose of medications in wastewater (e.g. down the sink or in the toilet) or in household garbage. Ask your pharmacist how to dispose of medications that are no longer needed or have expired.

What form(s) does Retin-A Micro come in?

0.04%
Each g of gel contains tretinoin microsphere 0.04%. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzyl alcohol, butylated hydroxytoluene, carbomer 974P, cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyol, disodium EDTA, glycerin, PPG-20 methyl glucose ether distearate, propylene glycol, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, purified water, sorbic acid and trolamine.

0.1%
Each g of gel contains tretinoin microsphere 0.1%. Nonmedicinal ingredients: benzyl alcohol, butylated hydroxytoluene, carbomer 934P, cyclomethicone and dimethicone copolyol, disodium EDTA, glycerin, PPG-20 methyl glucose ether distearate, propylene glycol dicaprylate/dicaprate, propylene glycol, purified water, sorbic acid and trolamine.

Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.

Who should NOT take Retin-A Micro?

Tretinoin should not be used by anyone who is allergic to tretinoin or any of the ingredients of the medication.

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