Generic Name: tretinoin topical (TREH tih noyn)
Typical Brand Names: Altinac, Avita, Renova, Retin A Micro Gel, Retin-A
What Is It Used For?
Renova is used for the treatment of wrinkles, brown spots, and
surface roughness on the face. It is also effectual in eradicating
stretch marks. This can also be used to treat acne. The working
process of Renova is quite simple; it works by binding to specific
cell receptors of skin after a topical application. After the
cell receptors have been activated, there is a modification in
gene expression, subsequent protein synthesis, and cell growth
and differentiation. Thus, the epidermal cell is modified to produce
a greater amount of new skin. In clinical studies there is an
enhanced production of collagen in areas of treated skin.
How Is It Used?
Wash your face thoroughly with a cleanser and dry it properly
10 to 15 minutes before applying Renova. Apply the cream before
going to bed; use sunscreen lotion every morning to protect your
skin from sun burn and dryness. Avoid sun exposure between 10
a.m. and 2 p.m. when the sun's rays are the strongest.
Reduce the application to once in two or three nights if the
skin starts to appear too dry, if you are planning to remove hair
from your face, stop using Renova at least 15 days before the
treatment. Avoid the medications into your eyes, if it somehow
happens, wash your eyes properly; consult your doctor if that
doesn't help.
Are There Possible Side Effects?
Renova can make the skin more sensitive to sun light (easier to
get a sun burn), it can also cause dryness, redness and tenderness
of skin. Renova can lead to the swelling of skin. Using Renova
during pregnancy can lead to hap hazardous consequences.
Is It Safe?
Do not take Renova without first consulting with your doctor.
What About Interactions With Other Drugs?
Do not use Renova without consulting your doctor if you are taking
any of the following medicines: A thiamine diuretic such as hydrochlorothiazide
(HCTZ, HydroDiuril, Esidrix, Microzide, Oretic), chlorothiazide
(Diuril), chlorthalidone (Hygroton, Thalitone), indapamide (Lozol),
metolazone (Mykrox, Zaroxolyn), and others; A tetracycline antibiotic
such as tetracycline (Sumycin, Panmycin, Robitet, others), minocycline
(Dynacin, Minocin, Vectrin), doxycycline (Doryx, Monodox, Vibramycin,
Vibra-Tabs), demeclocycline (Declomycin), and others; A fluoroquinolone
antibiotic such as lomefloxacin (Maxaquin), sparfloxacin (Zagam),
ciprofloxacin (Cipro), ofloxacin (Floxin), and others; A sulfonamide
antibiotic such as sulfamethoxazole (Gantanol), sulfisoxazole
(Gantrisin), sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (Bactrim, Septra, Cotrim),
and others; or A phenothiazine such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine),
prochlorperazine (Compazine), fluphenazine (Permitil, Prolixin),
promethazine (Phenergan, Promethegan), perphenazine (Trilafon),
and others. The medications listed above may increase the sensitivity
of your skin to UV rays from sunlight or artificial light (e.g.,
sunlamps). Generally, Renova should not be used with any of the
medicines listed above.
What If I Miss A Dose?
If you miss a dose, use it as soon as remembered; do not use if
it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and
resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not "double-up"
the dose to catch up.
How Should It Be Stored?
Renova can be stored at room temperature, keep the medicine away
from sunlight. Keep the medication out of the reach of children.
Anything Else I Should Know?
Renova can increase sensitivity to sunlight, wind and cold hence
it is advised to avoid prolonged exposure to the sun and sunlamps.
Wear protective clothing and use an effective sunscreen. This
medication should not be used during pregnancy. It is not known
if Renova appears in breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Use mild soap when washing your face. Do not wash face excessively.
Abrasive soaps, cleansers, medicated creams or lotions can increase
skin irritation. Use other acne preparations with caution while
using Renova.
NOTE: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute
for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist,
or other healthcare professional. It should not be construed to
indicate that the use of the product is safe, appropriate, or
effective for you. Consult your healthcare professional before
taking the product.
