Acitretin

Acitretin is an oral retinoid that is anti-inflammatory, and affects cell proliferation and differentiation. Acitretin is used alone, or in combination with narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy or topical drugs (eg topical corticosteroids, tars, calcipotriol).

Oral acitretin is a potent teratogen, and therapy must be managed by experts. At the time of writing, Australian State and Territory law restricts prescribing of acitretin to specialist physicians and dermatologists1.

Note: Acitretin is teratogenic and must not be used in pregnant patients, or patients who intend to become pregnant during therapy or in the 3 years after stopping acitretin therapy.

Acitretin is contraindicated in patients who are pregnant or who intend to become pregnant during therapy or in the 3 years after stopping therapy. Acitretin is very rarely prescribed for patients of childbearing potential.

Systemic retinoids can have many adverse effects (eg cheilitis; dry nose, eyes and face; peeling of palms and soles; softened nails; hair loss; joint and muscle pain; headache; dyslipidaemia; photosensitivity).

1 For current restrictions on prescribing oral acitretin, see the Standard for the Uniform Scheduling of Medicines and Poisons on the Therapeutic Goods Administration website.Return