Retin A/ Accutane (Advanced pharmacology) - Assignment Example

Retin A/ Accutane (Advanced pharmacology) Retin A/ Accutane (Advanced pharmacology) Retin A is a Tretinoin composed of Retinoic acid or Vitamin A acid and is available in the forms of creams, gels and liquids for topical administration. The main use of the topical formulations is for the treatment of acne vulgaris (Spratto & Woods, 2009). Retin A has also shown to fade dark spots, improve skin texture and smoothen the skin texture because it works at a cellular level (Wadyka, 2006). Retin A is used commonly for treatment or reduction of blackheads and whiteheads.

Topical tretinoin works by decreasing micro comedone formation and reduces the cohesiveness of the follicular epithelial cells. It also reduces the mitotic activity of the follicular epithelial cells along with the reduction in the keratin synthesis (Spratto & Woods, 2009). After topical use the most commonly encountered side effects include redness, edema and crust formation on the skin. Hyperpigmentation, increases sensitivity to sunlight, stinging, pruritus and dryness are also included in the side-effects.

The use of Retin-A is contraindicated in eczema, sunburn, or if the patient is inherently sensitive to sunlight. Use of the topical solutions should be with caution during lactation (Spratto & Woods, 2009). Retin A Micro is an alternate to Retin A which has same composition but the tretinoin is contained in the form of tiny sponges that release the chemical slowly when applied on skin. This causes less skin irritation as compared to Retin A (Preston, 2004). Accutane is Isotretinoin which is prescribed for severe acne unresponsive to antibiotics and it is commonly given for treating acne nodules greater than 5mm in diameter.

It is given in dose of 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg body weight per day and is available in the form of capsules. It is advised to take it with food. Mild side effects associated with it include peeling of skin, diminished night vision, red cracked lips, bleeding gums, slow healing, dry skin, muscle aches and increased photosensitivity. Accutane is rated as pregnancy X drug and is completely contraindicated in pregnancy because of risk of fetal abnormalities. It is also associated with more serious adverse effects of ulcerative colitis and depression leading to suicidal tendencies (Drugwatch, 2014).

ReferencesDrugwatch. (2014, March 14). “What is Accutane?? Its Uses and Interactions.” Drugwatch. Retrieved from: http://www.drugwatch.com/accutane/Preston, L. (2004). Breaking out: a womans guide to coping with acne at any age. New York: Simon & Schuster.Spratto, G., & Woods, A. (2009). Delmars Nurses Drug Handbook. New York; Cengage Learning. Wadyka, S. (2006, November 30). “The thing about Retin-A: It works.” New York Times. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/2006/11/30/fashion/30skin.html?pagewanted=all