AL-e-TRET-i-noyn
Alitretinoin slows the growth of Kaposi’s sarcoma cells and keeps the cancer from coming back.
This medicine may be called by its brand name, Panretin®, or by the common name, 9-cis-retinoic acid.
Alitretinoin gel is applied topically (to the skin) to Kaposi’s sarcoma lesions.
Store alitretinoin gel at room temperature away from heat and moisture.
Wash and dry your hands well before using alitretinoin gel. Gently rub the gel onto the lesion(s), until it is spread in an even, generous layer. If you apply the gel with your fingers, wipe your hands with a tissue and wash them right afterwards. Do not cover the skin area with anything right after applying the gel. Wait 3 to 5 minutes before covering the lesion(s) with loose clothing; do not cover lesions with bandages.
After bathing, wait 20 minutes before applying alitretinoin gel. After applying the gel, wait at least 3 hours to shower, bathe, or swim.
Alitretinoin gel may cause burning, itching, flaking, peeling, and redness in the affected skin after you use it, especially during the first couple weeks. These effects are normal and may last several days after you stop using the gel.
Avoid getting sunburned while using alitretinoin gel. Your skin may be more sensitive to sunlight while using the gel and for a while after you stop using the gel.
Avoid scratching the treated areas while using alitretinoin gel.
Avoid using other skin care products on treated areas; use a mild soap when bathing. Mineral oil may be used for skin dryness or itching. Wait at least 2 hours between applying alitretinoin gel and applying mineral oil.
Avoid using insect repellents that contain DEET, or N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide. DEET may cause more side effects when used with panretinin gel.
Tell your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist if you are allergic to any medications, especially medications which contain retinoids (eg, tretinoin (Retin-A®, Vesanoid®)) or isotretinoin (Accutane®). Some people with allergies to these products are also allergic to alitretinoin because it contains a retinoid.
Keep using alitretinoin gel, even if there is no change in the Kaposi’s sarcoma lesions. Some people may respond to alitretinoin gel within 2 weeks after starting treatment. In most patients, alitretinoin gel starts working after 4 to 8 weeks. Others may not see a change for up to 14 weeks.
Apply the gel right away if you skip or forget to apply a dose of alitretinoin. If it is almost time for the next dose, do not apply the missed dose but return to your regular schedule. Do not increase your dose to make up for a missed dose.
Call your doctor if you are worried about a side effect or have questions about your medical care.
Call the doctor at once if you have any of these side effects:
Call the doctor as soon as you can if you have any of these side effects: