Alitretinoin skin gel

What is this medicine?

ALITRETINOIN (a li TRE ti noyn) is a retinoid, a form of vitamin A. This medicine treats skin lesions in patients with AIDs-related Kaposi sarcoma.

How should I use this medicine?

This medicine is for external use only. Do not take by mouth. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Make sure the skin is clean and dry. Wait 20 minutes after a shower or bath before using. Apply a generous coating to the lesions. Do not rub the gel into the lesion. Allow the gel to dry for 3 to 5 minutes before covering with clothing. Try to avoid contact of the gel with unaffected skin around the lesions. This will decrease irritation and redness. Do not cover lesions treated with the gel with any bandage or material other than loose clothing. Wipe your finger(s) you have used to apply the gel with a tissue and wash your hands using soap and water. Wait at least 3 hours after any application before showering, bathing, or swimming. Use your medicine at regular intervals. Do not use your medicine more often than directed.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• pain, redness, blistering, tingling, or irritation of the skin

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dry skin

What may interact with this medicine?

• DEET (N,N diethyl-m-toluamide)-containing insect repellents

• Do not use any other skin products on the same area of skin without talking to your health care professional.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, use it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, use only that dose. Do not use double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date. This medicine is flammable. Avoid exposure to heat, fire, flame, and smoking.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• an unusual or allergic reaction to alitretinoin, vitamin A, other vitamin A analogs or retinoids, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Tell your health care professional if your symptoms do not start to get better or if they get worse.

This medicine can make you more sensitive to the sun. Keep out of the sun. If you cannot avoid being in the sun, wear protective clothing and use sunscreen. Do not use sun lamps or tanning beds/booths.

Mineral oil may be used in between applications in order to prevent too much dryness or itching. Do not apply mineral oil for at least 2 hours before or after applying this gel. Try not to scratch treated areas.

Do not become pregnant while taking this medicine. Women should inform their health care professional if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects and harm to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional for more information. Do not breast-feed an infant while taking this medicine.