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Dr. Andrew Rynne
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Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Negative Effects Of Tretiva?

I ve acne problem for the past 4 years. I am 21yrs now and I have visited the dermatologiast and tried switching lot of face wash. But pimples keep coming. After I took tretiva, there is control. But am more worried about its side effects. Is it too dangerous? Can you tell me if I could continue taking Tretiva 5 till my face gets clear? there is no acute acne. But my face is not clear either.
Mon, 24 Nov 2014
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Dermatologist 's  Response
Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service.
I have reviewed your query and here is my advice.
This medicine contains isotretinoin, which is an oral retinoid. Oral retinoids are for the treatment of acne and are not for treatment of acne scars or blemishes. Retinoids are not dangerous and are commonly prescribed by a dermatologist for acne; mainly for moderately severe to severe acne or acne that is leading to scaring or not responding to traditional antiacne medications.

The most common side effects are minor like cheilitis and skin dryness. Serious side effects like pancreatitis are very rare.

The duration of treatment is governed by the severity of acne.

Retinoids are prescription drugs and should always be taken under the supervision of a dermatologist for the prescribed duration only.

Since your main concern is blemishes rather than acne, I would suggest that you talk to your dermatologist regarding your problem in detail.

There are other options available that would be better suited to address your concern e.g., chemical peeling and creams containing skin lightening ingredients like kojic acid, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, etc.

Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Kakkar S
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What Are The Negative Effects Of Tretiva?

Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. This medicine contains isotretinoin, which is an oral retinoid. Oral retinoids are for the treatment of acne and are not for treatment of acne scars or blemishes. Retinoids are not dangerous and are commonly prescribed by a dermatologist for acne; mainly for moderately severe to severe acne or acne that is leading to scaring or not responding to traditional antiacne medications. The most common side effects are minor like cheilitis and skin dryness. Serious side effects like pancreatitis are very rare. The duration of treatment is governed by the severity of acne. Retinoids are prescription drugs and should always be taken under the supervision of a dermatologist for the prescribed duration only. Since your main concern is blemishes rather than acne, I would suggest that you talk to your dermatologist regarding your problem in detail. There are other options available that would be better suited to address your concern e.g., chemical peeling and creams containing skin lightening ingredients like kojic acid, azelaic acid, hydroquinone, etc. Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Kakkar S