What acitretin is used for?
Acitretin is used to treat severe skin disorders, such as psoriasis. It works by allowing normal growth and development of the skin. Acitretin will continue to work after you stop taking it, but after a time, the skin condition returns and you may need to take it again.
How long can you take acitretin for?
A course of treatment is likely to last for up to six months but occasionally it can be for longer than this. Acitretin is harmful to unborn babies, so it is very important that you do not become pregnant while you are taking it.
What does acitretin do to skin?
Acitretin belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids. Retinoids relate to retinol, or vitamin A. Acitretin works by binding to receptors in the body. These receptors help normalize the speed of skin cell growth, reducing the effects of conditions that include psoriasis.
Is acitretin good for acne?
Acitretin may be a promising treatment for severe nodulocystic acne and hidradenitis suppurativa, which require long-term suppression when isotretinoin fails to give long-term remission.
Is acitretin safe to take?
Acitretin may cause bone or muscle problems, including joint pain, muscle pain or stiffness, or difficulty moving. You may get hurt more easily during rough sports. You may also heal more slowly. Acitretin may cause blurred vision or a decrease in night vision (night blindness).
Does acitretin weaken your immune system?
Acitretin is not immunosuppressive, is generally safe for long-term use and has no time limit restrictions, which makes it useful in combination therapy and for maintenance therapy.
How long does it take for acitretin to work?
It may take 2–3 months or longer before you feel the full benefit of acitretin. Your psoriasis may get worse during the first few months of treatment. This does not mean that acitretin will not work for you, but tell your doctor if this happens.
Does acitretin raise cholesterol?
Acitretin can worsen diabetes, raise blood lipids (cholesterol, triglyceride) and cause liver inflammation. You should advise your doctor before treatment If you have had any of these problems.
Can acitretin cause joint pain?