GENERIC NAME: ETRETINATE - ORAL (eh-TRET-in-ate)
BRAND NAME(S): Tegison
Warning | Medication Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage
WARNING: Because etretinate has caused serious birth defects, do not use this medicine if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. After stopping treatment, the amount of time to pass before you may safely become pregnant has not been determined. Consult your doctor about this. Females who are able to have children must not use this medication unless they have a negative pregnancy test 2 weeks before starting this drug; will start therapy only on the 2nd or 3rd day of next normal menstrual period; use reliable methods of birth control at least 1 month before using etretinate, while using etretinate, and for an extended period of time after stopping this medication; are counseled about the dangers of using this medication while pregnant. Etretinate use has been linked to liver problems (hepatitis) and increased fluid pressure on the brain (pseudotumor cerebri). Notify your doctor immediately if you develop any of these symptoms: yellowing eyes or skin, dark urine, stomach pain, unusual fatigue, headache, nausea and vomiting, or vision changes. Your doctor will decide whether to continue using etretinate.
USES: This medication is used to treat severe cases of psoriasis.
HOW TO USE: Take this medication with food to prevent stomach upset. Do not increase your dose or take this more often than directed. Your condition will not clear faster, but side effects may be increased.
SIDE EFFECTS: Dry nose, nosebleeds, chapped lips, mouth sores, increased thirst, sore tongue, bleeding gums, dry mouth, cold sores, dry or irritated eyes, dry skin, peeling or scaly skin, hair loss, easy bruising, muscle aches, nausea, stomach upset, cough or swelling of the hands or feet may occur. Inform your doctor if any of these effects continue or become bothersome. Notify your doctor if you experience: vision problems, chest pain, tightness in the chest, abnormal pulse, dizziness, vomiting, severe headache, yellowing of the eyes/skin (jaundice). Psoriasis may worsen during the first few days of therapy. Because this medication causes dry, irritated eyes, contact lens wearers may be less tolerant of their contacts during therapy. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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