Generic Tretinoin

Common Use

Tretinoin is an oral retinoid primarily prescribed to treat severe nodular or cystic acne that has not responded to other treatments. It works by shrinking the oil glands in the skin and reducing sebum production, thereby preventing clogged pores and inflammation.

Dosage and Direction

Tretinoin should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider, usually once or twice daily with food. The dosage is based on body weight and severity of acne, and the typical course lasts 15–20 weeks.

Precautions

Avoid alcohol, vitamin A supplements, and excessive sun exposure while taking Tretinoin . Regular blood tests and pregnancy tests (for women) are required during treatment due to the potential for serious side effects, including birth defects.

Contraindications

Tretinoin is contraindicated in pregnant or breastfeeding women, and in patients with known hypersensitivity to Tretinoin or its components. It should not be used by individuals with liver disease or high blood lipid levels unless supervised by a specialist.

Possible Side Effect

Common side effects include dry lips, dry skin, nosebleeds, and muscle pain. Serious side effects may include mood changes, vision problems, liver issues, and severe abdominal pain. Immediate medical attention is required for allergic reactions or signs of depression.

Drug Interaction

Avoid using Tretinoin with tetracycline antibiotics, corticosteroids, or vitamin A derivatives, as these may increase the risk of adverse effects. Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements.

Missed Dose

If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If it’s near the time of the next dose, skip the missed one. Do not double the dose to make up for it.

Overdose

In case of overdose, symptoms may include vomiting, facial flushing, stomach pain, headache, or dizziness. Seek emergency medical help immediately if an overdose is suspected.

Storage

Store Tretinoin at room temperature (15–25°C), away from light and moisture. Keep the capsules in their original blister packaging and out of reach of children.

Disclaimer

We provide only general information about medications which does not cover all directions, possible drug integrations, or precautions. Information at the site cannot be used for self-treatment and self-diagnosis. Any specific instructions for a particular patient should be agreed with your health care adviser or doctor in charge of the case. We disclaim reliability of this information and mistakes it could contain. We are not responsible for any direct, indirect, special or other indirect damage as a result of any use of the information on this site and also for consequences of self-treatment.

Clinical Verification

Last Clinically Updated: August 15, 2026

Written By

Dr. Elena Vance, PharmD

Clinical Specialist in Neuropharmacology

Fact Checked By

Marcus Thorne, MS

Biomedical Data & FDA Label Verification

Medically Reviewed By

Dr. Arthur Campbell, MD

Board-Certified Psychiatrist (ABPN)