Tretinoin Gel Generic: Uses, Dosage, Side-Effects, Warning

If battling acne has become a daily frustration, and you are searching for a treatment that won’t irritate your skin, Tretinoin gel is the solution. Tretinoin gel is a vitamin A derivative (retinol) formulation. Tretinoin gel generic is a topical retinoid (vitamin A) mainly prescribed for the topical treatment of acne vulgaris.

Tretinoin gel uses

Tretinoin gel is a topical medicament used to treat acne vulgaris. Acne vulgaris is a skin condition that occurs when hair follicles plug with oil and dead skin cells. It belongs to a class of drugs called retinoids. It works by affecting the growth of skin cells, thereby promoting the quick healing of acne by reducing the number and severity of acne lesions. Tretinoin gel is also helpful in reducing fine wrinkles and mottled/discoloured skin. It also helps make skin smoother.

Tretinoin gel generic

Many people have started opting for generic medicines to save more. The efficacy and results of generic medicines are the same as those of brand medicines. Tretinoin gel is available in many generic and brand options, in single- and combination-forms. Some of them are listed here for your ease:

Retino A cream
• A Ret gel
• Supatret gel
• Revize Microgel
• Treticon cream
• Tretin cream

Tretinoin in combination formulation includes:

• Tri-Luma cream
• Clearz Max cream
• Melamet cream
• Skin Lite

How to use Tretinoin gel?

Before applying Tretinoin gel or cream, wash your hands properly. Gently clean the affected area with a mild cleanser and pat dry. Use your fingertip to apply this medicine in a thin layer or as directed by your dermatologist. If you are confused, read the patient information leaflets. You should not use this gel unless it is prescribed; always consult your doctor and follow their instructions when using this medication for safe use.

Dosage

Tretinoin gel and cream formulations have many strengths. Your dermatologist will prescribe the appropriate dosage based on your skin condition. This gel is to be applied once a day, before bed, to the skin where acne lesions appear. Use enough quantity to cover the affected area with a thin layer. After applying a ret gel, some may experience a transitory feeling of warmth or slight stinging. If irritation persists, discontinue use for a while and resume slowly with a smaller amount and less frequently when you are able to tolerate the treatment, or follow your dermatologist’s guidance and instructions when applying this gel.

Initially, due to the medication’s action on deep, previously unseen lesions, there may be a possibility of worsening inflammatory lesions; in this case, do not discontinue the therapy. If there is any confusion, do not hesitate to consult your doctor. Visible results may start appearing after 2 to 3 weeks of continuous use, and it may take about 6 weeks to deliver beneficial results. Stay committed to this medication for optimal results.

Side effects of Tretinoin gel

Tretinoin gel is a topical ointment and should be used only on the skin. It is an approved medication that is mostly safe to use; still, there might be a possibility of having some side effects, such as;

• Hives
• Difficulty in breathing
• Swelling of the face
• Severe burning, stinging.
• Irritation and itching in the treated area
• Serious eye symptoms such as sudden vision loss, blurred vision, eye pain
• Headache or confusion
• Sudden dizziness
• High fever, sweating.

If any of the symptoms mentioned above worsen or persist longer, consult your dermatologist as soon as possible.

Warning and precautions

Precautions:

In general, some points are important to remember as precautions while using this formulation, and  they include:

• Stop using this medication and consult your dermatologist if you experience any adverse reaction, such as sensitivity or chemical irritation.
• Avoid exposure to direct sunlight while using this product; prolonged exposure may cause sunburn.
• It should not be used by a patient who is pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting a doctor.
• Do not allow anyone else to use this medication.
• Use this medication on a clean and dry area. Always remove makeup before applying this gel.
• Maintain hygiene while using this medication. Always remember to wash your hands properly before and after applying this medication.
• After use, close the lid tightly.
• Do not apply to lesions that are bloody and bruised.
• Store this formulation in a cool and dry place

Warning

• GELS ARE FLAMMABLE. Note: Keep this gel away from heat and flame.
• Avoid using tretinoin gel in patients below 12 years of age; its safety and efficacy have not been established.
• Please do not use this medication without consulting a dermatologist; it may lead to some serious adverse effects.