Retinoic Acid Solution

Overview

Tretinoin, also called all-trans-retinoic acid (ATRA), is a naturally occurring derivative of vitamin A (or retinol) that increases cell turnover. Tretinoin when applied topically is used to treat mild to moderate acne (e.g., grades I-III), photodamaged skin, and keratinization disorders such as ichthyosis and keratosis follicularis. Topical tretinoin is effective in reducing fine lines, hyperpigmentation, roughness, and laxity associated with photodamaged skin. It clears the skin of blemishes and discolorations by speeding the process of cell renewal.1, 2, 3, 4

Tretinoin peels are known to cause skin irritation, redness, itching, swelling, dryness, and sun sensitivity. The higher the concentration and the longer the application duration, the greater the intensity and adverse effect potential. For these reasons, Tretinoin Chemical Peels are best administered under professional supervision by a healthcare practitioner.

Indications

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How Supplied

While tretinoin products are available commercially, patients that would benefit from the administration of a much higher concentration may be prescribed this compounded preparation as determined by a prescriber. Common formulations prepared at Galleria Medical Pharmacy include but are not limited to:

Tretinoin 0.3% Solution

Tretinoin 0.4% Solution

As per FDA regulations, compounds prepared by a pharmacy are not intended for office use (e.g., office stock of a drug that is administered to multiple patients). As such, this preparation requires a prescription, which is then administered to the specified patient by a healthcare practitioner at their practice.

Storage

Store this medication at 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C) and away from heat, moisture and light. Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Throw away any unused medicine after the beyond use date. Do not flush unused medications or pour down a sink or drain.

Reference

  1. Altreno (tretinoin lotion) package insert; Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC; 2018 Aug.
  2. Renova 0.02% (tretinoin cream) package insert; Bridgewater, NJ: Valeant Pharmaceuticals North America LLC; 2013 Jun.
  3. Yoham AL, Casadesus D, “Tretinoin”. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2020 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557478/
  4. Fisher GJ, Wang Z, Datta SC, et al. Pathophysiology of premature skin aging induced by ultraviolet light. N Engl J Med 1997;337:1419-28.

Compounding Pharmacy Statement

This preparation is compounded with drug components whose suppliers are registered with the FDA. While Galleria Medical Pharmacy adheres to USP <795> guidelines and applicable state and federal regulations to meet the required quality standards, the statements made regarding this preparation have not been evaluated by the FDA for safety or clinical effectiveness. As such, this preparation is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For inquiries concerning this preparation, please contact (504) 267-9876.